Medications and Drugs
Pharmacy Author: Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD
Medical and Pharmacy Editor: Jay W. Marks, MD
GENERIC NAME: etidronate
BRAND NAME: Didronel
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Etidronate is in a class of drugs called
bisphosphonates that is used for treating osteoporosis (reduced density of bone
that leads to fractures) and bone pain from diseases such as metastatic
breast cancer, multiple myeloma, and Paget's disease. The bisphosphonate class includes
alendronate (Fosamax), ibandronate (Boniva), pamidronate (Aredia), risedronate
(Actonel), and tiludronate (Skelid). Bone is in a constant state of remodeling;
new bone is laid down by cells called osteoblasts while old bone is removed by
cells called osteoclasts. Bisphosphonates strengthen bone by inhibiting bone
removal by osteoclasts. After menopause, there is an increased rate of bone loss
leading to osteoporosis, and etidronate has been shown to increase bone density
and decrease fractures of bones. The FDA approved etidronate in September 1977.
PRESCRIPTION: Yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 200 and 400 mg.
STORAGE: Etidronate should be stored at room temperature, 15-30 C (59-86 F).
PRESCRIBED FOR: Etidronate is used for treating Paget's disease and
preventing heterotopic ossification. Heterotopic ossification is a process in
which bone is deposited in soft tissues and muscles, usually after
hip
replacement or spinal cord surgery. Non-FDA approved (off-label) uses include
hypercalcemia (increased blood levels of calcium) associated with cancer,
prevention of steroid induced osteoporosis, and postmenopausal osteoporosis.
DOSING: The recommended dose for adults is 5-20 mg/kg daily. Food
(especially, calcium rich foods such as dairy products), antacids,
vitamins with
mineral supplements, and certain medications can interfere with the absorption
of etidronate. Therefore, etidronate should be taken on an empty stomach 2 hours
before or after eating, or taking other medications.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Calcium replacement products (for example, calcium
chloride, calcium gluconate, and calcium carbonate) and antacids (for example,
aluminum hydroxide) reduce the absorption and effects of etidronate.
PREGNANCY: The safety and effectiveness of etidronate has not been
established in pregnant women.
NURSING MOTHERS: The safety and effectiveness of etidronate has not been
established in nursing mothers.
SIDE EFFECTS: Common side effects of etidronate include stomach pain, nausea,
vomiting, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, rash, hair loss, and muscle or
joint pain. Etidronate may worsen existing stomach or
intestinal ulcers. Rarely,
patients may experience jaw problems (osteonecrosis of the jaw) associated with
delayed healing and infection after tooth extraction. Severe skin reactions,
seizures, as well as decreased red and white blood cell levels occur rarely.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 10/12/2009
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Total Hip Replacement - Read about total hip replacement surgery complications, problems (infection, prosthesis failure, fractured hip, limited mobility), post op rehab and precautions.
- Menopause - Menopause symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, abnormal vaginal bleeding, vaginal itching, dryness, and pain, urinary symptoms, weight gain, acne, skin texture changes, and mood changes.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Womens Health RSS