Question

A client being treated for osteoporosis with alendronate reports experiencing slight heartburn after taking the medicine. What should the nurse suggest to reduce this side effect?

1. Stop taking the medication and call the primary healthcare provider.
2. Drink plenty of water with the medication.
3. Take the medication before bedtime.
4. Take antacids when taking the medication.

Answer 1

The nurse should suggest drinking plenty of water with the medication, remaining upright for at least 30 minutes after taking it, avoiding bedtime doses, and not taking antacids simultaneously with alendronate to reduce heartburn.

The correct answer is option 2. Drink plenty of water with the medication.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a client being treated for osteoporosis with alendronate is experiencing slight heartburn, the nurse should suggest the following steps to reduce this side effect:

• Drink plenty of water with the medication.
• Remain upright (sitting or standing) for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication.
• Do not take the medication at bedtime.
• Do not take antacids at the same time as the bisphosphonate.

Heartburn is a common side effect of bisphosphonates due to their potential to cause irritation in the esophagus. Drinking water helps wash down the tablet and reduce the risk of esophageal irritation. Staying upright helps prevent gastric reflux, where stomach contents, including the medication, might come back up the esophagus causing irritation or heartburn. Taking antacids simultaneously with alendronate can interfere with the absorption of the medication, so they should be taken at different times if needed for heartburn relief.