Denosumab

Denosumab is an osteoporosis medication that is used in postmenopausal women who have a high risk of fractures and in people who have been unsuccessful with other osteoporosis treatments. Besides slowing the breakdown of bones, the drug can also increase bone mineral density. A healthcare provider will administer this medicine by injection once every six months. Side effects may include back pain and high cholesterol.

Denosumab Drug Information

What Is Denosumab?

Denosumab (Prolia™) is a prescription medication approved to treat osteoporosis. Specifically, it is approved for use in postmenopausal women who are at a high risk for fractures (broken bones) and in people who have tried other osteoporosis treatments without success (or are intolerant of such treatments). Denosumab is given as an injection twice a year.

(Click What Is Denosumab Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)

Are There Side Effects?

Just like any medicine, denosumab can cause side effects. However, not everyone who uses the drug will experience problems. Most people tolerate it quite well.

If reactions do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.

Common side effects of denosumab include but are not limited to:

Back pain
Pain in an extremity (arm or leg)
High cholesterol.

(Click Side Effects of Denosumab to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)

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