Prolia for osteoporosis – indications, method of use, action and side effects

Proven content

Prolia is a drug for osteoporosis indicated primarily for postmenopausal women and men at increased risk of bone fractures. The active substance in Prolia is denosumab, a human monoclonal antibody. How does Prolia work and when should it be used? Are there any problems with using Prolia? How to properly dose this preparation?

Prolia – composition and action

Prolia is a drug that is used when a patient is diagnosed with osteoporosis. The active substance in Prolia is denosumab, a human monoclonal antibody directed against RANKL. RANKL is a protein that recognizes and binds to a receptor that activates the nuclear factor kappa B. RANKL is involved in bone metabolism and belongs to the tumor necrosis factor family. The active substance in Prolia binds RANKL with high affinity and therefore prevents its receptor from being activated. This in turn inhibits the formation, function and survival of osteoclasts, thereby reducing the resorption of the cortical layer of human bones.

Prolia – indications and contraindications

Prolia is a medicine that is used in patients with osteoporosis, a disease that makes bones fragile. This is especially true of osteoporosis, which occurs in postmenopausal women and in men at higher risk of brittle bones. In women who have been through the menopause, Prolia reduces the risk of fracture in the vertebrae and other bones, especially in the hip. The use of Prolia is also indicated for the loss of bone mass in men that has been caused by the treatment of prostate cancer. In addition, Prolia is recommended for all adults who are at risk of bone fractures as a result of long-term treatment with oral or injection corticosteroids. Hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients of the preparation is a contraindication to the use of Prolia.

Prolia – method of application and correct dosage

Prolia is available as a solution for injection in pre-filled syringes. Each such ampoule contains 60 mg of the active substance, i.e. denosumab. The dosage of Prolia is determined by the doctor treating the patient. As recommended in the package leaflet, Prolia is given once every 6 months. The dose of the drug, i.e. 60 mg of the contents of the ampoule, is injected into the patient’s thigh, abdomen or back of the arm. During treatment with Prolia, the treating physician should ensure that the patient is adequately supplementing vitamin D and calcium. Injections are made by someone who is licensed to do this type of injection. Prolia can only be obtained with a prescription.

Side effects with Prolia

Prolia, like any other medical preparation, may cause side effects. The most common side effects with Prolia are pain in the hands, pain in the legs, bone pain, and pain in the joints and muscles. Cellulitis, hypocalcaemia, allergic reactions, osteonecrosis of the jaw and atypical femoral fractures occur less frequently.

Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health.

Check if you have a problem with osteoporosis by taking a blood test package Check the condition of your bones. You will use it to examine the basic parameters that are important for the proper functioning of the skeletal system.