Can I take Alendronic acid and Zinc together?
Drug interaction guide
Originally published 14 Mar 2026
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Taking zinc at the same time as alendronic acid can significantly reduce the amount of medicine your body absorbs. This means the alendronic acid may not work properly to strengthen your bones or prevent fractures.
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Why this happens
Zinc binds to the alendronic acid in your stomach, forming a complex that the body cannot absorb into the bloodstream.
What you should do
Back to contentsDo not take zinc supplements (or multivitamins containing zinc) at the same time as alendronic acid. You should wait at least 30 minutes (though 2 hours is even better) after taking your alendronic acid before taking any other medicines, supplements, or food.
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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.
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Article history
The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
14 Mar 2026 | Originally published
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