Tiludronate, classified a bisphosphonates type drug, is indicated for use in humans that have conditions of excessive bone loss, like Paget's disease. It is available in several commercial products including Tildren and Skelid. In 2003 a large well designed study found that in carefully selected cases of lame horses with evidence of navicular bone disease found the use of tiludronate beneficial. This was followed by a positive report in its use in horses with throacolumbar osteoarthritis and it's ability to reduce bone loss during restricted movement like might be experienced in a cast leg. Since then there have been reports of several different bone and joint disease being treated with this drug. In this article we explore what is known about the use of this drug in horses and dosage regimens.

Tiludronate works by inhibiting bone resorption. In vitro studies indicate that there is inhibition of osteoclastic activity and reduction of the enzymatic and transport processes that lead to resorption of the mineralized matrix.