Denosumab
Information about Denosumab
Denosumab uses
Denosumab is used in the treatment of osteoporosis. It is also used to treat bone loss in men with prostate cancer and in women with breast cancer who are receiving certain treatments that increase their risk for fractures.
How denosumab works
Denosumab is a monoclonal antibody. It binds to a protein that causes bone loss, thereby strengthening the bone and minimizing the risk of fractures.
Common side effects of denosumab
Pain in extremities, Musculoskeletal (bone, muscle or joint) pain, Rash, Eczema, Constipation, Sciatica, Urinary tract infection, Upper respiratory tract infection, Back pain, Joint pain, Abdominal discomfort, Hair loss, Hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol), Cystitis, Cellulitis, Diverticulitis, Ear infection, Lichenoid drug eruptions, Osteonecrosis of the jaw, Atypical femoral fracture, Decreased calcium level in blood, Hypersensitivity, Anaphylactic reaction
Available Medicine for Denosumab
Expert advice for Denosumab
- Denosumab is a medication used to treat thinning of the bones (called osteoporosis).
- Take calcium and vitamin D to help build your bones when taking Denosumab.
- Do not take if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
- May cause a rare problem of the jaw (osteonecrosis), mostly seen after a dental procedure. Tell your doctor if you develop sudden jaw pain.
- Denosumab may also increase the risk of infection. Avoid being close to people with cold, flu or other contagious illnesses.
- Tell your doctor if you develop a rash while taking Denosumab.
Frequently asked questions for Denosumab
Denosumab
Q. How long can you stay on Denosumab?
There is no optimal duration of treatment of osteoporosis with Denosumab. The patient’s response and tolerability to the medicine is continuously monitored through periodic assessments, especially after 5 years of use of Denosumab. Depending on this, the duration of taking Denosumab is decided.
Q. Does Denosumab cause hair loss?
Yes, hair loss is a common side effect of Denosumab though it does not affect everyone. Discuss with your doctor if you have concerns regarding your hair loss.
Q. Is Denosumab a chemotherapy drug?
Denosumab is not a chemotherapy drug. It is a protein (monoclonal antibody) that interferes with the action of another protein in order to treat bone loss and osteoporosis. Treatment with Denosumab makes the bones stronger and less likely to break.