Can I take Alendronic acid and Lansoprazole together?
Drug interaction guide
Originally published 25 Jan 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
- Language
- Discussion
Taking lansoprazole may make alendronic acid less effective at strengthening your bones. There is also a slightly higher risk of developing certain types of bone fractures (such as hip or wrist fractures) when these two types of medicines are used together over a long period.
In this article:
Continue reading below
Why this happens
Alendronic acid needs a certain level of stomach acid to be absorbed properly. Lansoprazole works by reducing stomach acid, which can interfere with how well the alendronic acid is taken up by your body. Additionally, both drugs can independently affect bone density when used long-term.
What you should do
Back to contentsYou can take these medicines together, but it is vital to follow the specific timing instructions for alendronic acid. Take your alendronic acid first thing in the morning on an empty stomach with a full glass of plain water, at least 30 minutes before taking lansoprazole or eating any food. Your doctor may also monitor your bone density more closely or ensure you have enough calcium and vitamin D.
Continue reading below
Important precautions
Back to contentsOesophageal abnormalities or inability to stand/sit upright
You must be able to stay fully upright (sitting or standing) for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronic acid Do not take it if you have problems with your food pipe (oesophagus), as it can cause severe irritation or ulcers if it does not pass quickly into the stomach.
Dental health and jaw bone issues (Osteonecrosis)
Alendronic acid can rarely cause bone loss in the jaw. You must maintain good oral hygiene and have a dental check-up before starting treatment. Tell your dentist you are taking a bisphosphonate before any dental procedures.
Severe diarrhoea (C. difficile)
Lansoprazole may slightly increase the risk of severe bacterial diarrhoea. If you develop persistent or watery diarrhoea, or stomach pain, seek medical advice immediately and do not take anti-diarrhoeal medicine without consulting a doctor.
Food and drink warnings
Back to contentsAll food and drink (except plain water)
You must take alendronic acid on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. Food, tea, coffee, or juice will stop the medicine from being absorbed by your body. Wait at least 30 minutes after taking it before having your first food or drink of the day.
Dairy products (milk, cheese, yoghurt)
Dairy products are high in calcium, which binds to alendronic acid and prevents it from working. Do not consume dairy for at least 30 minutes after taking your tablet.
Mineral water
Avoid mineral water as it can contain high levels of calcium. Only take your alendronic acid tablet with a full glass of plain tap water.
Food (general)
Lansoprazole works best if taken at least 30 minutes before food. Taking it with or after a meal can slow down its absorption and make it less effective.
Continue reading below
Using other medicines
Back to contentsTaking 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.
Patient picks for Drug interactions
Treatment and medication
Can I take Codeine and Paracetamol together?
Codeine and paracetamol are frequently used together to provide better pain relief than either medicine used alone. They do not have a negative interaction; instead, they work together in a helpful way. In fact, they are often sold combined in a single tablet (such as Co-codamol).
Treatment and medication
Can I take Sertraline and Citalopram together?
Taking sertraline and citalopram together significantly increases the risk of a rare but serious condition called serotonin syndrome. This happens when there is too much of the chemical serotonin in your brain. There is also an increased risk of a specific heart rhythm problem called QT prolongation, which can cause fainting or palpitations.
Continue reading below
Article history
The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
25 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Ask, share, connect.
Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.
Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free
Sign up to the Patient newsletter
Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.
By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.