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Compare Fosamax vs. Estrace tablets

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

  • Alendronate (Fosamax)
    Estradiol
  • Alendronate (Fosamax)
    Estradiol

  • Summary of Fosamax vs. Estrace tablets

    Summary for Bisphosphonate
    Prescription only

    Alendronate sodium (Fosamax) is a bisphosphonate that prevents and treats osteoporosis. It works by slowing the breakdown of bones so that the body has a chance to build up more bone; this strengthens bones and lowers the risk of fractures. Alendronate (Fosamax) is taken by mouth, either daily or weekly dosing, depending on your dose. In addition to the tablet, it's also available as an oral solution and a dissolvable tablet (brand name Binosto). Some common side effects of alendronate (Fosamax) can include stomach pain, heartburn, and bone or muscle pain.

    Summary for Estrogen replacement
    Prescription only

    Estradiol is used to treat symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal irritation. It also helps prevent bone loss (osteoporosis) after menopause. Additionally, some people take it for other conditions like breast or prostate cancer. The dose depends on why you're taking the medication, and tablets are typically taken 1-3 times a day. Some side effects of estradiol include nausea, vomiting, headache, and breast pain. The tablet that was once sold as the brand name Estrace has been discontinued, but it's still available as a generic medication.

  • Indications of Fosamax vs. Estrace tablets

    Indications for
    •Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in females
    •Treatment of osteoporosis in males
    •Paget's disease
    Indications for
    •Hot flashes and night sweats due to menopause
    •Vaginal itching, dryness, and burning due to menopause
    •Low estrogen levels
    •Breast cancer or prostate cancer in certain people
    •To prevent bone loss (osteoporosis) after menopause

  • Pros and Cons of Fosamax vs. Estrace tablets

    Pros and Const for Bisphosphonate
    Pros
    •Can be taken by males and females (unlike another bisphosphonate)
    •Option for daily or weekly dosing for osteoporosis
    •Taken by mouth
    •Comes as a regular tablet, oral solution, or effervescent tablet
    Cons
    •Can't lie down for 30 minutes after you take it
    •Must take on empty stomach, can't eat for 30 minutes after a dose
    •Can cause serious jaw problems and severe muscle or joint pain
    •Has many stomach-related side effects
    Pros and Const for Estrogen replacement
    Pros
    •Helps prevent weak bones, bone loss, and fractures in women who have already gone through menopause
    •Available as an oral tablet, which can be easier to take compared to using a vaginal cream or ring
    •Comes in multiple strengths, allowing your provider to customize your dose
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Can be challenging to remember when to take your dose if you're taking the medication in cycles
    •Raises your risk for certain cancers, strokes, and heart attacks
    •Not a first-choice medication for treating bone loss after menopause
    •Can worsen some health conditions, such as asthma or diabetes

  • Common Side Effects of Fosamax vs. Estrace tablets

    Common Side Effects for
    •Stomach pain (up to 7%)
    •Muscle, bone, and joint pain (up to 4%)
    •Heartburn or indigestion (up to 4%)
    •Nausea (up to 4%)
    •Passing gas (up to 4%, more common with daily dose)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache
    •Breast pain
    •Abnormal vaginal bleeding or spotting
    •Stomach cramps or bloating
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Hair loss

  • Warnings of Fosamax vs. Estrace tablets

    Common Side Effects for
    •Irritation and ulcers of the stomach and esophagus
    •Lower calcium levels
    •Muscle Pain
    •Jaw bone problems
    •Leg bone fractures
    •Not recommended in people with serious kidney problems
    Common Side Effects for
    •Uterine (endometrial) cancer
    •Breast cancer
    •Heart disease and heart attacks
    •Blood clots and strokes
    •Dementia
    •Gallbladder and liver problems
    •Changes in calcium levels in the blood
    •Vision problems
    •High triglycerides
    •Low thyroid hormone levels (hypothyroidism)
    •Fluid Retention
    •Worsening of other health conditions

  • Prices with our coupons for Fosamax vs. Estrace tablets

    Learn more about Alendronate
    Learn more about Estradiol

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