Denosumab

Question 1

What type of drug is Denosumab and how does it work?

Answer 1

It is a monoclonal antibody that inhibits osteoclast formation, function and survival.

Question 2

How is it given?

Answer 2

As a subcutaneous injection - 60mg every 6 months.

Question 3

How is it used in the management of osteoporosis?

Answer 3

• First line - Alendronate.
• Second line - Risedronate or etidronate.
• Third line - Raloxifene or Denosumab (Was strontium but stopped due to safety concerns)

Question 4

What are the side effects of denosumab?

Answer 4

• Most common: Dyspnoea & Diarrhoea (1 in 10 patients)
• Less common - hypocalcaemia, URTI. Atypical femoral fractures.

Therefore look out for patients complaining of unusual thigh, hip or groin pain.