Although there are no known drug interactions between vitamin B-12 and Fosamax, this does not necessarily mean you will not have an adverse reaction while taking this medication with this vitamin. Fosamax can cause a variety of side effects and may negatively interact with other medications or supplements. While B-12 generally does not produce any adverse side effects on its own, it may cause unpleasant reactions when taken with certain medications. Always talk to your doctor if you have specific questions about the safety of vitamin B-12 or Fosamax.
About Fosamax
Fosamax, a brand name for the medication alendronate, works by increasing the density of the bone and preventing bone breakdown. It is often prescribed to prevent or treat osteoporosis, but it also is used to treat Paget’s disease. Potential side effects include heartburn, stomach pain, gas, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, bloating, headache, swelling or dizziness. Call your doctor if these side effects are severe or persistent. Serious side effects include difficulty or pain swallowing, new or worsening heartburn, fever, bloody vomit, bloody or black stools, chest pain, blisters or peeling skin, itching, rash, hives, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, loosening of teeth, eye pain, painful or swollen gums, hoarseness and dull or aching pain in the hips, thighs or groin. Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these serious side effects. As of September 2011, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is reviewing data to evaluate whether the use of this medication could cause an increased risk of cancer of the esophagus. Talk to your doctor about this risk before taking this medication.
Fosamax Interactions
Although Fosamax does not interact negatively with vitamin B-12, it may interact negatively with other supplements or medications. In particular, aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are known to interact negatively with Fosamax. Examples of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications include piroxicam, naproxen, ibuprofen, ketorolac, ketoprofen, indomethacin, difunisal, diclofenac and celecoxib. Let your doctor or pharmacist know if you regularly take any of these medications before starting Fosamax.
About Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12 plays an essential role in the formation of red blood cells, brain function and DNA synthesis. While most people get adequate amounts of this vitamin through food, some people take vitamin B-12 supplements to meet their daily requirements of the vitamin. People over the age of 50 may particularly benefit from these supplements, as the body’s ability to absorb the vitamin through food decreases at this age. Since people of this age are also at a greater risk for osteoporosis, many take vitamin B-12 supplements at the same time as taking Fosamax. Not only are these supplements unlikely to interact with Fosamax, but even large amounts of the supplement are unlikely to cause adverse side effects.
B-12 Interactions
Vitamin B-12 could potentially interact with a number of medications. Proton pump inhibitors, chloramphenicol, H2 receptor antagonists and metformin are some medications with a known interaction with vitamin B-12, but other medications or supplements may also interact negatively with this medication. Always report all of your current vitamins and supplements to a doctor before taking vitamin B-12 supplements.
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