Effect of ethane-1-hydroxy-1,1-diphosphonate and vitamin D on bone mineralization.

Administration of large quantities of ethane-1-hydroxy-1,1-diphosphonate to growing chicks resulted in a decrease in percent bone ash and an increase in percent osteoid. The degree of inhibition of bone mineral accumulation was a function of both duration and quantity of ethane-1-hydroxy-1,1-diphosphonic acid administration. The inhibition of bone mineral accumulation could be partially corrected with administration of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. Administration of high levels of ethane-1-hydroxy-1,1-diphosphonate also resulted in inhibition of intestinal calcium absorption. This could be reversed or prevented by the administration of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3.