Treatment of malignant hypercalcaemia with clodronate.
Percival RC., Paterson AD., Yates AJ., Beard DJ., Douglas DL., Neal FE., Russell RG., Kanis JA.
We have assessed the effects of clodronate (dichloromethylene diphosphonate; Cl2MDP 0.8-3.2g daily by mouth for up to 3 months) in 17 episodes of hypercalcaemia and osteolysis due to carcinoma. Clodronate reduced serum calcium in 14 episodes and bone resorption in all patients. These remained suppressed for the duration of treatment, but recurred promptly when treatment was stopped. Clodronate may be a useful measure for controlling hypercalcaemia and osteolysis in patients with carcinoma.