Whey Protein - Fosamax Plus D (Alendronate Sodium, Cholecalciferol) Interaction
Herbal: Whey Protein
Also Known As: MBP, Milk Protein, Milk Protein Isolate, Protéine de Lactosérum, Protéine de Lait, Whey, Whey Fraction, Whey Peptides, Whey Protein Concentrate, Whey Protein Hydrolysate, Whey Protein Isolate, WPC, WPI
Drug: Alendronate Sodium, Cholecalciferol
Brand names:
Fosamax Plus D
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 18, 2025
Interaction Details
Alendronate Sodium, Cholecalciferol is classified as belonging to the following category: Bisphosphonates
Theoretically, whey protein might reduce the absorption of bisphosphonates.
Whey protein contains minerals such as calcium that bind bisphosphonates in the gut. Advise patients to take bisphosphonates at least 30 minutes before whey protein, but preferably at a different time of day.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
ProbableInteraction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
References
- Martindale W. Martindale the Extra Pharmacopoeia. Pharmaceutical Press, 1999.
- Peters ML, Leonard M, Licata AA. Role of alendronate and risedronate in preventing and treating osteoporosis. Cleve Clin J Med 2001;68:945-51.
Whey Protein Overview
Whey protein is a type of protein derived from cow's milk. Specifically, whey comes from the cheesemaking process. Enzymes are added to milk, which separates the milk into cheese curds and liquid whey. Whey is a complete protein, meaning that it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body needs but cannot produce on its own. Whey protein is often used as a supplement to help build and repair muscle tissue, and it is popular among athletes and bodybuilders.
There are three main types of whey protein: concentrate, isolate, and hydrolysate. The concentrate contains a higher amount of lactose (milk sugar) and fat, while isolate is a purer form of protein that contains less lactose and fat. Hydrolysate is a predigested form of whey protein that is easier for the body to absorb.
Whey protein is often consumed in the form of powders, shakes, and bars, and it can be mixed with water, milk, or other beverages.
Drug interactions with whey protein typically result due to the calcium content of whey, which can decrease absorption of some drugs, including many classes of antibiotics.
Whey Protein - More Interactions
Whey Protein interacts with 52 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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