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Fosamax vs. Nolvadex

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

Key takeaways

Alendronate (Fosamax) and tamoxifen (Nolvadex) are both prescription medications, but they serve different purposes and belong to different drug classes. Alendronate is a bisphosphonate used to prevent and treat osteoporosis by slowing bone breakdown, while tamoxifen is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) used to treat and prevent hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer. Alendronate is taken either daily or weekly and comes in various forms, including tablets and oral solutions. In contrast, tamoxifen is usually taken once a day as an oral tablet. Common side effects of alendronate include stomach pain and heartburn, whereas tamoxifen often causes hot flashes and swelling in the arms and legs. Additionally, tamoxifen has a risk of causing uterine cancer and blood clots, while alendronate can lead to serious jaw problems and lower calcium levels. Both medications require careful adherence to dosing instructions and monitoring for side effects.

Alendronate

(Fosamax)

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Tamoxifen

(Nolvadex)

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Summary for Fosamax

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.

Indications for Fosamax

Pros and Cons for Fosamax

Pros

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

Common Side Effects for Fosamax

  • 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)

Warnings for Fosamax

  • 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

Summary for Nolvadex

Prescription only

Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). It’s used to treat early stage and advanced or metastatic hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer in males and females. It’s also used to lower the risk for breast cancer in females who have a higher risk for breast cancer. Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) is an oral tablet that's taken by mouth, usually once a day. Common side effects of this medication include hot flashes, vaginal discharge, and swelling in the arms and legs, which might lead to weight gain. Brand name Nolvadex is no longer available.

Indications for Nolvadex

Pros and Cons for Nolvadex

Pros

  • Usually taken once a day
  • Oral tablet is available as a lower-cost generic
  • Might help prevent bone loss (osteoporosis) after menopause

Cons

  • Might raise your risk for blood clots, uterine cancer, and cataracts
  • Can’t take while pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Usually taken long term (at least 5 years)

Common Side Effects for Nolvadex

  • Hot flashes (up to 80%)
  • Vaginal discharge (up to 55%)
  • Swelling in the arms and legs (up to 32%)
  • Nausea (up to 26%)
  • Irregular or no monthly bleeding (up to 25%)
  • Vaginal bleeding (up to 23%)
  • Weight loss (23%)
  • Skin changes (19%)

Warnings for Nolvadex

  • Blood clots
  • Changes in the uterus and risk of uterine cancer
  • Eye problems
  • Liver problems
  • High calcium levels in the blood
  • Low platelet count (risk of bleeding)
  • Harm to unborn baby

Prices with our coupons for Fosamax vs. Nolvadex

Price Card Drug Icon
Alendronate3 dose packs / 4 tablets of 70mg
$16.67$112.91
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Price Card Drug Icon
Tamoxifen90 tablets / 20mg
$41.24$208.74
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