How long will Fosomax stay in my bones after quitting?

I'm sorry to hear about the joint pain and leg aches you're experiencing while managing essential thrombocythemia (ET) with hydroxyurea (HU) and osteoporosis at 73. It's frustrating when medications like Fosamax (alendronate) don't agree with your body, especially after just five weekly doses. Many people report similar musculoskeletal side effects, such as severe aches in bones, joints, or muscles, which can emerge quickly and feel overwhelming alongside other treatments.

Stopping Fosamax abruptly due to these issues is a common decision, and while the drug does bind to bones with a long half-life—potentially lingering for years—the effects from short-term use like yours may not be as entrenched. Side effects often improve after discontinuation, with some noticing relief in days to weeks, though it can take longer for full resolution as your body adjusts. The persistence in bones means some anti-resorptive benefits might remain temporarily, but negative symptoms typically fade as the active drug levels drop.

Your shift to lifestyle changes is empowering: incorporating weight-bearing exercises, light weight-lifting, and a nutrient-rich diet (focusing on calcium, vitamin D, and bone-supporting foods like leafy greens and dairy) can help maintain bone health naturally. These approaches are evidence-based for osteoporosis and may enhance your overall well-being without added meds.

That said, consult your doctor soon—they can assess any risks, monitor bone density, and explore alternatives if needed. Patient stories from forums suggest many who quit early feel better over time, regretting it less as aches subside. Prioritize rest and gentle movement in the meantime. Hang in there; focusing on what you can control often leads to improvement. If symptoms persist, professional guidance is key.

Thank you for responding. I am still waiting for symptoms to subside. Joint pain and bone aches are my reason for stopping Fosomax abruptly. I appreciate your insight and advice. I have consulted with my Oncologist and am doing my best to move forward.

I hope you start feeling better soon! I also have osteoporosis and took Fosamax for a few months five years ago but discontinued for an unrelated reason. I don’t really know how long the drug stayed in my body - I was dealing with several other serious health issues and whatever side effects I had from the drug paled in comparison.

My internist persuaded me to restart Fosamax a few months ago since my osteoporosis is progressing. I have decided to take half a dose now - 35mg instead of 70. My doctor tried to persuade me to take the full dose, but I am not interested in getting all the potential side effects.

May be you can try a different medication for osteoporosis or take a lower dose of Fosamax?

I just completed a five year dose of Fosomax for osteoporosis . I am 76 years old. Thankfully, I had no side effects from it. I didn’t realize the side effects until I read these posts. I am so sorry that you had to go through those bad effects and that Fosomax didn’t help you. I am hoping that it stays in my body and continues to help my bones stay strong. Maybe there is another drug out there that could help you or as “alive” suggests, a lower dose of Foxomax. Wishing you all my best for a solution.