Disodium clodronate tetrahydrate is a bisphosphonate compound used primarily in medical applications for treating bone resorption disorders such as osteoporosis and Paget's disease. It helps reduce bone pain, lower the risk of fractures, and manage conditions exacerbated by long-term steroid use or other causes of bone thinning by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, the cells responsible for bone breakdown.

It is also used in cancer patients to manage hypercalcemia and bone metastases, especially in cases involving breast cancer and multiple myeloma. Its mechanism involves interfering with osteoclast function, leading to decreased bone turnover.

The compound is administered orally or intravenously, depending on the condition being treated. It must be used under close medical supervision due to potential side effects on the gastrointestinal system or kidney function, particularly in patients with renal impairment.