Review Article Volume 16 Issue 5 - 2025

The Secrets of Clodronate: An Old Drug with a New Soul

Rosini Sergio1, Rosini Stefano2, Molfetta Francesco3 and Molfetta Luigi4*

1Biomaterial Research Center, Livorno, Italy

2Smile-Restyle, Livorno, Italy

3DINOGMI Department, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy

4DISC Department, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Research Center of Osteoporosis and Osteoarticular Pathologies, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy

*Corresponding Author: Molfetta Luigi, DISC Department, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Research Center of Osteoporosis and Osteoarticular Pathologies, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
Received: August 01, 2025; Published: September 18, 2025



Clodronate belongs to a class of drugs (bisphosphonates - BPs) that began to be studied in the late 1960s due to their high affinity for bone hydroxyapatite, to which they bind stably while inhibiting osteoclastic bone resorption. Although BPs share similar chemical structures, they exhibit markedly different pharmacodynamic behaviors and systemic tolerability profiles, both in terms of their primary activity and safety. Studies conducted over the years on these interesting compounds-characterized by poor oral absorption and rapid renal excretion without undergoing metabolic transformation-have revealed their potential applications in various pathological conditions beyond their main anti-osteoclastic action. In this regard, Clodronate stands out among bisphosphonates for its broad spectrum of demonstrated activities and excellent tolerability.

 Keywords: Clodronate; Bisphosphonate; VNUT; Purinergic Receptors; Immunity

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Molfetta Luigi., et al. “The Secrets of Clodronate: An Old Drug with a New Soul”. EC Orthopaedics  16.5 (2025): 01-09.