Etidronate

The first member of the bisphosphonate family of bone therapies for preventing or treating osteoporosis. It prevents spine fractures. The active medicine is only taken for the first two weeks of every three months. It is less expensive, has fewer side effects and is easier to take than newer bisphosphonates. It can be taken in the middle of the night. OR an early biphosphanate taken for two weeks, every three months. Prevents spine fractures in randomized placebo-controlled trials. Does not cause heartburn or esophageal injury. See bisphosphonates.