| name | Etidronate |
| Classification | Bisphosphonate |
| Pharmacokinetics | Etidronate is primarily eliminated by renal excretion. Its absorption is variable and depends on the formulation and presence of food. Significant amounts are excreted in the urine. The half-life is relatively short, but the drug can accumulate in bone mineral. |
| suggested dosage | | adult | | oral | varies greatly depending on the indication. Consult with a physician for specific dosage and duration. | | IV | varies greatly depending on the indication. Consult with a physician for specific dosage and duration. |
| | note | The appropriate dosage of etidronate depends on the patient's condition and should always be determined by a physician. |
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| indications | | 1 | Treatment of Paget's disease of bone | | 2 | Prevention of skeletal complications in patients with bone metastasis from certain cancers | | 3 | Treatment of hypercalcemia of malignancy. |
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| Safety in pregnancy | Limited data available. Use during pregnancy should be avoided if possible due to potential risks. Consult with a physician about the risks and benefits if the drug is absolutely necessary. |
| Safety in breastfeeding | Limited data available, and it is not known if etidronate is secreted in human milk. Use should be avoided if possible, but consult a physician if needed. |
| side effects | | 1 | Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain) | | 2 | Headache | | 3 | Renal issues (particularly with prolonged use at higher doses) | | 4 | Bone pain | | 5 | Increased risk of esophageal irritation (oral route, especially if the patient has difficulty swallowing) | | 6 | Hypersensitivity reactions | | 7 | Skin rash |
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| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity to etidronate or other bisphosphonates | | 2 | Significant renal impairment | | 3 | Active esophageal ulcers or other esophageal conditions. | | 4 | Severe dehydration |
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| interactions | | 1 | Other medications that affect renal function (e.g., diuretics) | | 2 | Concurrent use with antacids can reduce absorption. | | 3 | Caution with concurrent use of calcium supplements as they may impact absorption. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Monitor renal function during and after treatment | | 2 | Administer oral etidronate with a full glass of water and remain upright for at least 30 minutes after intake to minimize esophageal irritation. | | 3 | Do not crush or chew sustained-release tablets. | | 4 | Important to maintain adequate hydration. |
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| additional informations | | 1 | Long-term use of high doses of etidronate can lead to osteomalacia (softening of bones) and decreased bone mineral density in some patients. | | 2 | Etidronate is often used in combination with other treatments for more effective and comprehensive management. |
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| alternatives | | 1 | | | 2 | | drug | Risedronate | | class | Bisphosphonate |
| | 3 | | drug | Zoledronic acid | | class | Bisphosphonate |
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