Etidronate belongs to a class of medications called bisphosphonates, which work by strengthing 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.

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 this disease is unknown, symptoms of which are 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.

This medication 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.

 

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