The nurse is counseling a 55-year-old woman who is to begin taking Fosamax (alendronate) to prevent osteoporosis. Which of the following instructions by the nurse is best?

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The best instruction for taking Fosamax is to take each dose on an empty stomach. This is because food can interfere with the absorption of the medication. The patient should also wait at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything (other than water) after taking the medication. Bedtime dosing may increase the risk of esophageal irritation or reflux, so it is not recommended. Taking Fosamax with orange juice may also decrease absorption due to the presence of certain compounds in the juice.

The Nurse Is Counseling a 55-Year-Old Woman Who Is to Begin