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Can I take 50 and Alendronate together?

Drug interaction guide

Taking alcohol with alendronate can increase the risk of irritating your food pipe (oesophagus) and stomach lining. It may also increase the risk of a rare but serious jaw bone problem.

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Why this happens

Both alcohol and alendronate can irritate the lining of the digestive tract. Alcohol can also interfere with how your body maintains bone health, potentially increasing the risk of side effects related to bone density treatments.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking alendronate. To protect your food pipe, always take alendronate first thing in the morning with a full glass of plain water, stay upright for at least 30 minutes, and do not eat or drink anything else (including alcohol) during this time.

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Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.

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Article history

The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 14 Mar 2026 | Originally published
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