Nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate that binds to hydroxyapatite in bone, is internalized by osteoclasts during resorption, and inhibits farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase (mevalonate pathway), disrupting osteoclast function and inducing apoptosis. Reduces bone resorption and lowers serum calcium.
At a glance
Class
Bisphosphonate (Anti-Resorptive)
Storage
Store at room temperature below 30°C
Dosing
Used for hypercalcemia of malignancy (oral maintenance after IV bisphosphonate)
Used for idiopathic hypercalcemia in cats and hypercalcemia of malignancy
Safety
Serum ionized calciumRenal function (BUN, creatinine)PhosphorusClinical signs of hypocalcemia
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Alendronate?
Alendronate is a bisphosphonate (anti-resorptive) used in pets. Nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate that binds to hydroxyapatite in bone, is internalized by osteoclasts during resorption, and inhibits farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase (mevalonate pathway), disrupting osteoclast function and inducing apoptosis. Reduces bone resorption and lowers serum calcium.
›What is Alendronate used for in pets?
Alendronate is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for hypercalcemia of malignancy (oral maintenance after IV bisphosphonate) ; Used for idiopathic hypercalcemia in cats and hypercalcemia of malignancy.
›What is the Alendronate dose for dogs?
For dogs, Alendronate is typically dosed as follows — Used for hypercalcemia of malignancy (oral maintenance after IV bisphosphonate) : 10–20 mg/dog PO Once weekly. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Alendronate dose for cats?
For cats, Alendronate is typically dosed as follows — Used for idiopathic hypercalcemia in cats and hypercalcemia of malignancy: undefined undefined PO Once weekly. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Alendronate need a prescription?
Yes. Alendronate is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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