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Fosamax vs. Prolia

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.

• Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in females
• Treatment of osteoporosis in males
• Paget's disease

• 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)

• 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

Prolia (denosumab) is an injection that's used to treat osteoporosis in adults at high risk of fracture. It's also for those at high risk of fractures from certain cancer medications. It works as a monoclonal antibody called a RANKL inhibitor to strengthen your bones. Prolia (denosumab) is a convenient option because you only need an injection every 6 months. It's injected under the skin by a healthcare professional at a medical office. Side effects include back and muscle pain. It also has a risk of causing dangerously low calcium levels.

• Osteoporosis in women who've gone through menopause and at high risk of fracture
• Osteoporosis in men at high risk of fracture
• Osteoporosis caused by steroid medications in people at high risk of fracture
• Bone loss in men at high risk of fracture taking certain medications for prostate cancer
• Bone loss in women at high risk of fracture taking certain breast cancer medications

• Back pain (35%)
• Pain in the arm or leg (12%)
• Muscle, bone, or joint pain (up to 8%)
• High cholesterol levels (7%)
• Pain or discomfort while urinating and other symptoms of a bladder infection (6%)
• Sensation that the room is spinning (5%)
• Swelling in the hands or feet (5%)
• Upper respiratory tract infection (5%)

• Dangerously low calcium levels
• Risk of fractures in the thigh bone
• Risk of spine fractures after stopping Prolia (denosumab)
• Risk of serious infections
• Risk of problems in the jawbone
• Serious allergic reactions and skin reactions
• Severe bone, muscle, or joint pain
• Don't take with Xgeva (denosumab)