Fosavance is a medication which contains the compounds alendronate and calciferol. Alendronate is a bisphosphonate and is most commonly used to treat osteoporosis. Calciferol is the name for a synthetic form of vitamin D, which can also be used to keep bones from breaking down. Although Fosavance is safe for most patients, there are some side effects associated with its use.
Gastrointestinal
Many of the side effects of taking Fosavance have to do with the gastrointestinal system, NetDoctor reports. The most common are abdominal pain, nausea and changes in bowel movements, which can lead to diarrhea or constipation. Patients may also experience flatulence and acid reflux. In some cases the gastrointestinal disruption can cause serious problems, such as ulcers forming in the esophagus and stomach. This can lead to severe pain and internal bleeding, which may be seen as vomiting blood or the appearance of black and tarry stools, also known as melena. Chronic acid reflux can cause the esophagus to become narrowed due to the formation of scar tissue; this is also known as an esophageal stricture.
Nervous System
Patients may also experience some side effects due to Fosavance's effects on the nervous system. Patients have experienced headaches and dizziness while taking Fosavance, Drugs.com notes, as well as changes in the way that things taste.
Osteonecrosis
The use of Fosavance can also result in osteonecrosis of the jaw. With osteonecrosis, part of the bone tissue in the jaw dies, resulting in severe pain and swelling. Patients who have poor oral hygeine, have a tooth removed or who develop infection of the gums and other surrounding soft tissue may have an increased risk of developing this side effect.
Stevens-Johnson
Fosavance is also associated with a condition known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, also known as toxic epidermal necrolysis. This condition first manifests as a red or purple rash which spreads over large portions of the skin. Shortly thereafter the upper layer of skin on the affected portions is shed, causing large tracts of underdeveloped skin to be exposed. This is very painful and can also lead to dangerous infections.
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