I have been taking weekly doses of alendronate for several months, and basically have no side effects. I tried daily doses about 20 years ago, due to slight osteopenia, but it was very impractical then due to experiencing very acidic heartburn, and also needing to rush off to work every morning. I am retired and age 73, and just now scored slightly in the osteoporosis range, so okay, it's time! Due to previous side effects, I doubled the amount of water suggested on the package insert for before, during, and after the dose, with my doctor's knowledge. (PLEASE, ANYONE, request your own medical advice about this; my doctor is fine with how I do this, based on what she knows about me.) As suggested in dosing directions, I do not move much for the 30 minute wait time before eating, after taking the alendronate. Instead I use the time for email or reading. Also, I drink at least another full cup of water during the 30 minute wait time. When my timer goes off after 30 minutes, I drink another cup of water, and I remain, upright either standing or sitting, afterwards for most of the day. This routine has worked well for me, for over a year.