DRUG INDEX
GENERIC NAME: etidronate BRAND NAME: Didronel
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Etidronate belongs to a class of medications which strengthen bone. Bone is in a constant state of remodeling in which old bone is removed by cells called osteoclasts, and new bone is laid down by cells called osteoblasts. Etidronate inhibits bone removal by the osteoclasts.
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: no
PREPARATIONS: tablets: 200mg, 400mg.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature, sealed container, avoid moisture.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Etidronate is used to treat osteoporosis (thinning of bone) in women after menopause , even though this medication has not yet been approved by the FDA specifically for this purpose. After menopause, there is an increased rate of bone loss (resorption), and an increased risk of bone fractures. In these patients, etidronate has been shown to increase bone density while strengthening bone, and decrease the rate of bone fractures. Etidronate is also helpful in the treatment of Paget's disease of the bone. The cause of Paget's disease is unknown. It is characterized by a disorderly and accelerated remodeling of the bone, leading to bone weakness and pain. Etidronate reduces bone pain and fractures in Paget's disease. Etidronate is also used to prevent an unusual condition called heterotopic ossification. In heterotopic ossification, bone is deposited in soft tissues and muscles, usually after hip replacement or spinal cord surgery.
DOSING: Since calcium rich foods such as dairy products, antacids, vitamins with mineral supplements, and certain medications can interfere with the absorption of etidronate, the medication should be taken in an empty stomach 2 hours before eating or taking other medications.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: The safety of etidronate in patients with significant kidney disease is not known. Etidronate dosage usually is reduced in these patients. Since etidronate can lower blood calcium levels, pre-existing low blood calcium levels are corrected prior to instituting etidronate. The safety and effectiveness of etidronate has not been established in children.
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: Etidronate is generally well tolerated. Side effects are usually mild and often do not require discontinuing the medication. These include stomach pain or upset, constipation , diarrhea , muscle ache, and headache. In rare instances, patients with Paget's disease of the bone will experience increased bone pain during treatment with etidronate.
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