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
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.
Find a vet near you →Safety
Serum ionized calciumRenal function (BUN, creatinine)PhosphorusClinical signs of hypocalcemia
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.
Find a vet near you →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.
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.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database