etidronat

Etidronate is a bisphosphonate medication used to treat Paget's disease of bone and hypercalcemia associated with malignancy. It is also used to prevent and treat osteoporosis, particularly in postmenopausal women. Etidronate works by inhibiting osteoclast activity, which are the cells responsible for breaking down bone. By slowing down bone resorption, etidronate helps to preserve bone mass and reduce the risk of fractures.

The drug is typically administered orally as a tablet. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the specific condition being treated. For Paget's disease, treatment courses are usually limited to six months, followed by a drug-free period, due to the potential for impaired bone mineralization with prolonged use. In the case of hypercalcemia, it is usually given intravenously.

Common side effects of etidronate include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Some individuals may also experience flu-like symptoms, headache, or dizziness. A rare but serious side effect is osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), which is a condition where jaw bone tissue dies. The risk of ONJ is generally higher in patients receiving higher doses or longer durations of bisphosphonate therapy, as well as in those with poor oral hygiene or undergoing dental procedures.

Etidronate is contraindicated in patients with hypocalcemia or severe renal impairment. It is important for patients to maintain adequate calcium and vitamin D intake during treatment. Regular dental check-ups are recommended to minimize the risk of ONJ. Etidronate was one of the first bisphosphonates to be developed and has been used clinically for many years.