pamidronate

Pamidronate is a bisphosphonate drug used primarily to treat high levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia) caused by certain cancers, as well as bone damage associated with multiple myeloma and breast cancer that has metastasized to bone. It is also indicated for Paget's disease of bone. Pamidronate works by inhibiting osteoclast-mediated bone resorption, thereby slowing down the breakdown of bone and reducing the release of calcium from bones into the bloodstream. The drug binds to hydroxyapatite crystals in bone and may directly block their dissolution; it also inhibits osteoclast activity. Pamidronate does not treat cancer itself but helps manage complications related to cancer-induced changes in bones. Developed by Novartis and manufactured by Novartis and Pfizer.

Brand names

Aredia

Other names

aminohydroxypropylidene diphosphonate disodiumpamidronate disodium