OBJECTIVE: To review data describing use of intermittent dosing of alendronate. DATA SOURCES: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using MEDLINE (1966–May 2001) and EMBASE (1974–May 2001) databases to identify all information regarding intermittent dosing of alendronate. DATA SYNTHESIS: A small number of clinical studies have evaluated the use of intermittent alendronate dosing in an attempt to improve patient compliance and adverse events. CONCLUSIONS: Evidence from more controlled clinical trials and postmarketing data are needed to demonstrate the therapeutic efficacy and tolerability of intermittent alendronate dosing. The definitive role of intermittent dosing in patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis remains to be determined.