Prolia
Need help?
Our patient support team is available Monday through Friday 8AM - 6PM PST, and Saturday 9AM - 12PM PST.
What Is Prolia?
Prolia is a prescription medication that is used to treat a condition called osteoporosis in women who have gone through menopause and are at a high risk of bone fracture. Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weakened bones and an increased tendency to break. Prolia, also known by its generic name denosumab, works by inhibiting the activity of cells that break down bone tissue, called osteoclasts. By reducing bone breakdown, Prolia helps to increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. It is typically administered as an injection once every six months. It's important to note that Prolia is not suitable for everyone and that it may have some side effects. Common side effects include back pain, muscle or joint pain, and bladder infections. It is important to talk to your doctor about your medical history and any other medications you are taking before starting Prolia or any other treatment. Additionally, regular monitoring and follow-ups with your healthcare provider are important to ensure the medication's effectiveness and safety.
How to use Prolia?
Prolia is a medication used to treat bone loss in postmenopausal women at high risk of fractures. It is typically administered as an injection under the skin (subcutaneous injection) every six months. To use Prolia, a healthcare provider or a trained professional will administer the injection for you. The injection is usually given in the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen. It is important to follow the dosing schedule recommended by your doctor and not to miss any doses. Before taking Prolia, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about any underlying medical conditions, such as low blood calcium levels or infections. Certain medications or supplements may need to be adjusted or avoided while using Prolia, so it's crucial to inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking. During treatment with Prolia, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle that includes regular weight-bearing exercise, a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. These measures help support the effectiveness of Prolia in reducing the risk of fractures. If you have any concerns or questions about using Prolia, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Prolia is a prescription medication used to treat osteoporosis in women who are at a high risk of bone fracture after menopause. While Prolia can be effective in managing bone loss, there are several important warnings associated with its use. One significant warning is that Prolia can increase the risk of serious infections. This includes infections of the skin, urinary tract, and respiratory system. Patients should be cautious and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, flu-like symptoms, or any signs of infection. Another warning is the potential for atypical fractures of the thigh bone. Although rare, there have been reported cases of individuals experiencing fractures in the long bone of the thigh without any major trauma. Patients taking Prolia should be vigilant and report any new or unusual hip or thigh pain, as it may be an early indication of a possible fracture. Prolia may also lead to a decrease in calcium levels in the blood, which can result in potentially serious complications such as muscle spasms, numbness, and seizures. Regular monitoring of calcium levels is essential during treatment. Additionally, Prolia use has been associated with a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as skin cancer. Patients should be aware of any new or suspicious skin lesions and promptly report them to their healthcare provider. Other potential side effects include allergic reactions, musculoskeletal pain, and jaw problems. It's important for patients to discuss any concerns or symptoms with their doctor to ensure appropriate monitoring and management. Overall, while Prolia can be an effective treatment for postmenopausal osteoporosis, it is crucial for patients to be aware of these warnings and to work closely with their healthcare provider to monitor for potential complications.
Before taking Prolia, it is important to be aware of certain warnings and precautions associated with this medication. Here are a few key points to consider: 1. Hypocalcemia: Prolia can lower the levels of calcium in the blood. Therefore, individuals should have their blood calcium levels assessed and corrected, if necessary, before starting treatment with Prolia. Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake is important during treatment. 2. Infections: There have been reports of serious infections, including skin, abdominal, urinary tract, and ear infections, in patients taking Prolia. It is important to promptly seek medical attention if any signs of infection, such as fever or persistent pain, occur during treatment. 3. Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: Prolia has been associated with a rare condition called osteonecrosis of the jaw, which causes severe jaw bone problems. It is advisable to have a dental examination and, if necessary, receive appropriate preventive dental care before starting Prolia treatment. 4. Atypical Femoral Fractures: Prolia has been associated with rare fractures in the thigh bone known as atypical femoral fractures. If you experience thigh, hip, or groin pain during treatment, contact your doctor. 5. Skin Reactions: Severe skin reactions, including dermatitis, rash, and eczema, have been reported in some patients taking Prolia. If you develop any unusual skin symptoms, notify your healthcare provider. 6. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Prolia should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding as it may cause harm to the fetus or nursing infant. It is crucial to discuss your medical history and any current medications with your healthcare provider before starting Prolia to ensure its safe and appropriate use. Your doctor will determine if Prolia is suitable for you based on individual factors and considerations.
Side effects of Prolia, also known as denosumab, may include: 1. Back pain: Some individuals using Prolia may experience back pain as a side effect. This can range from mild discomfort to more severe pain. 2. Joint pain: Prolia use has been associated with joint pain, including pain in the arms, legs, and other joints. This pain can be temporary or persistent. 3. Muscle pain: Some users may experience muscle pain or weakness while taking Prolia. This can occur in various muscle groups and can range from mild to severe. 4. Nausea: Prolia treatment may cause nausea or an upset stomach in certain individuals. This side effect is generally mild and transient. 5. Skin reactions: Skin reactions such as rash, redness, or itching may occur in some individuals using Prolia. These reactions are usually mild, but in rare cases, they may require medical attention. 6. Weakness: Some individuals may experience weakness or fatigue as a side effect of Prolia use. This can range from mild to severe, and it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if this symptom persists or worsens. 7. Urinary tract infection: While uncommon, Prolia has been associated with an increased risk of urinary tract infections. Symptoms may include pain or burning during urination, frequent urination, and cloudy or bloody urine. It is crucial to discuss potential side effects with a healthcare professional before starting Prolia treatment. They can provide personalized information based on an individual's medical history and help monitor for any adverse reactions.
The active ingredient in Prolia is denosumab. Denosumab is a monoclonal antibody that works by targeting and inhibiting a protein called RANKL (receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand). RANKL plays a crucial role in the breakdown of bone tissue, so by inhibiting its action, denosumab helps to reduce bone loss and increase bone density. In addition to denosumab, Prolia also contains several inactive ingredients that assist in the formulation and administration of the medication. These inactive ingredients may include calcium acetate, sodium acetate, glacial acetic acid, polysorbate 80, and water for injection. These ingredients are carefully selected and combined to ensure the stability, effectiveness, and proper administration of Prolia. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication, including Prolia, to discuss potential side effects, drug interactions, and individual suitability for treatment.
Prolia, a prescription medication for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis, should be stored appropriately to maintain its effectiveness and ensure patient safety. The correct storage requirements for Prolia recommend keeping the medication refrigerated between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C). It is important to protect the medication from light and to store it in its original packaging until ready for use. Do not freeze Prolia or expose it to temperatures that exceed 86°F (30°C). Additionally, avoid storing Prolia near heat sources, moisture, or in the bathroom, as these conditions may potentially affect its stability and efficacy. Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional and check the medication label for any additional storage guidelines. If you have any concerns or questions regarding the storage of Prolia, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further clarification.