Etidronic acid

Etidronic acid is a first generation bisphosphonate similar to clodronic acid and tiludronic acid. These drugs were developed to mimic the action of pyrophosphate, a regulator of calcification and decalcification. Etidronate’s use has decreased over the years in favor of the third generation, nitrogen containing bisphosphonate zoledronic acid, ibandronic acid, minodronic acid, and risedronic acid.

Etidronic acid was granted FDA approval on 1 September 1977.

Etidronate is indicated to treat Paget's disease of bone, as well as the treatment and prevention of heterotropic ossification after total hip replacement of spinal cord injury.