Denosumab

The duration of treatment with Denosumab depends on your condition and your risk of fractures. Your doctor will periodically assess whether you should continue treatment. Do not stop or delay treatment on your own, because stopping denosumab can increase the risk of fractures, including multiple fractures of the spine.

No. Denosumab is not a chemotherapy medicine. It is a monoclonal antibody that blocks RANKL, a protein involved in the formation and activity of cells that break down bone. This helps reduce bone loss and increase bone strength.

Denosumab is given as an injection under the skin by a doctor or a nurse. For osteoporosis and related bone-loss conditions, the recommended dose once every 6 months. Your doctor may also advise adequate calcium and vitamin D supplementation.

No. Denosumab should not be used during pregnancy because it may harm the unborn baby. Women who can become pregnant should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 5 months after the last dose.

Yes, people with kidney disease can use Denosumab. However, people with advanced chronic kidney disease, especially those on dialysis, have a much greater risk of severe low calcium levels after receiving Denosumab. Your doctor may perform additional blood tests and monitor your calcium levels closely before and after treatment.

Stopping or delaying Denosumab can cause bone breakdown to increase again and may raise the risk of fractures. Multiple fractures of the spine can occur after discontinuing the medicine. If treatment needs to be stopped, your doctor may switch you to another medicine to reduce this risk.

Osteonecrosis of the jaw is an uncommon but serious problem reported with Denosumab. Maintain good oral hygiene and have regular dental checkups during treatment. Tell your doctor and dentist if you develop persistent jaw pain or swelling, loose teeth, or sores in the mouth that do not heal, and inform your dentist that you are receiving Denosumab before dental procedures.