Denosumab is used for the treatment of osteoporosis in women who have passed menopause and bone loss that is caused by prostate cancer in men. This is in the class of medications called monoclonal bodies. This slows bone loss to help maintain strong bones and reduces the risk of broken bones or fractures. Denosumab prevents certain cells in the body from breaking down bone. This is an FDA-approved prescription that comes as a solution to be injected subcutaneously.
How does Denosumab work?
In women who are already in their menopausal stage, the blood levels of their hormones start to lessen. This may result in an increase in the breakdown of bone by osteoclasts. It can lead to a loss of bone density. Bone loss is particularly quick for the first ten years after menopause. It may lead to the development of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis may also occur in men having treatment for prostate cancer. Denosumabworks by decreasing the amount of testosterone in the blood. In which it has a similar effect on bone in men to reduced estrogen levels in women.
Denosumab recognizes and binds to a specific protein that normally activates the osteoclasts. By binding to this protein, this medication stops it from activating the osteoclasts. This prevents the development, activity, and survival of the osteoclasts. This also stops them from breaking down bone. Therefore, this helps to keep the bones strong and less likely to break.
How to use Denosumab?
The dosage will depend on your medical condition, age, weight, and response to the treatment. Denosumab is given by injection under your skin in the upper arm, upper thigh, or abdomen. This is usually given every 6 months or as directed by your doctor.
Let your doctor know if your condition does not improve or if it gets worse. If you missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and follow your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed dose. Consult your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it gets worse.
What are the side effects of Denosumab?
- Weakness
- Back pain
- Constipation
- Pain in your arms and legs
- Muscle pain
- Diarrhea
Tell your doctor right away if you these serious side effects including:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Severe stomach or abdominal pain
- Weight loss
- Flu symptoms
What are the precautions in taking Denosumab?
- Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you ever had an allergic reaction to it or if you have any allergies.
- This is not recommended for use in children and adolescents under 18 years of age.
- Denosumab should be used with caution in smokers, people with poor oral hygiene, cancer, anemia, infections, and severely decreased kidney function.
- During pregnancy, this drug should not be used.
- Do not use this for the treatment of other diseases without the consent of a doctor.
- You should not share this with others even if they are experiencing the same symptoms as yours.
