Denosumab is used to treat bone loss (osteoporosis) in women who are at high risk for bone fracture after menopause. It is also used to treat bone loss in men who are at high risk for bone fracture. Osteoporosis causes bones to become thinner and break more easily. Your chance of developing osteoporosis increases after menopause (in women), as you age, if someone in your family has osteoporosis, or if you take corticosteroid medications (such as prednisone) for long periods.
Denosumab is also used to treat bone loss in women who are at high risk for bone fracture while receiving certain treatments for breast cancer.
Denosumab is also used to treat bone loss in men who are at high risk of bone fracture while receiving certain treatments for prostate cancer that has not spread to other parts of the body.
This medication works by slowing bone loss to help maintain strong bones and reduce the risk of broken bones (fractures). Denosumab belongs to a class of drugs called monoclonal antibodies. It prevents certain cells in the body (osteoclasts) from breaking down bone.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. It is important to keep receiving this medication even if you feel well. Most people with osteoporosis do not have symptoms. Remember to receive it every 6 months. It may help to mark your calendar with a reminder.
Continue to take other medications for your condition as directed by your doctor.
See also Precautions section.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Denosumab may cause low calcium levels, especially if you have kidney problems. Take calcium and vitamin D as directed by your doctor. (See also How to Use section.) Your doctor will order calcium blood tests before your first injection and during treatment. Tell your doctor right away if you have any symptoms of low calcium such as: muscle spasms/cramps, mental/mood changes (such as irritability or confusion), numbness/tingling (especially around lips/mouth or in fingers/toes), fast/irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness/fainting, seizures.
Denosumab can affect your immune system. You may be more likely to get a serious infection, such as a skin, ear, stomach/gut, or bladder infection. Tell your doctor right away if you develop any signs of infection, such as: fever/chills, red/swollen/tender/warm skin (with or without pus), severe abdominal pain, ear pain/discharge, trouble hearing, frequent/painful/burning urination, pink/bloody urine.
After your treatment with denosumab is stopped, you may be at increased risk for bone fracture, including bones in your spine. Do not stop using this medication without first talking with your doctor. If your treatment is stopped, talk with your doctor about other medicines you can take.
This medication must not be used during pregnancy. It may harm an unborn baby. Discuss the use of reliable forms of birth control with your doctor. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor right away.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
Lifestyle changes that help promote healthy bones include increasing weight-bearing exercise, stopping smoking, limiting alcohol, and eating well-balanced meals that contain adequate calcium and vitamin D. Since you may also need to take calcium and vitamin D supplements and make other lifestyle changes, consult your doctor for specific advice.
Laboratory and/or medical tests (such as bone density tests, calcium/phosphorus/magnesium levels, kidney function) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.
Do not take this medication with any other product that contains denosumab.
For the best possible benefit, it is important to receive each dose of this medication as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist right away to establish a new dosing schedule.
This medication is given in a hospital or clinic or doctor's office and usually will not be stored at home.
If you are picking up this medication at the pharmacy to bring to your medical appointment, store in the refrigerator between 36-46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C) until the day of your appointment. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist.