Denosumab is used to treat osteoporosis (condition characterised by soft, brittle bones) and bone loss.
This medicine helps strengthens thin and weak bones in those who have osteoporosis or are at risk of fractures.
Denosumab may be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.
Your doctor or nurse will administer the injection for you. If you or your caregiver had been given the proper training on the preparation and injection techniques of this medicine, you or your caregiver may do the administration.
Use Denosumab exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Denosumab is to be injected subcutaneously (into the fatty layer under the skin, usually in the thigh, upper arm or abdomen area).
Remember to rotate the injection sites. Do not inject into the same area all the time. New injection sites should be at least 1.5 inches away from the previous injection site. Do not inject near the navel (belly button).
Denosumab is available in single-use prefilled syringe. Make sure you know how to use the device you have been given. If you have problems or do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of the treatment depending on the type of condition you are being treated.
Administer the missed dose as soon as you remember and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have low levels of calcium in the blood as Denosumab may not be suitable for you.
Do not use Denosumab if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby soon. If you become pregnant while being treated with this medicine, alert your doctor immediately. Denosumab may cause harm to your unborn child.
It is important that you do not get pregnant while being treated with this medicine. You may wish to discuss birth control methods with your doctor or pharmacist. Avoid pregnancy during treatment and for at least 5 months after you stopped using Denosumab.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- kidney disease or are on dialysis
- cancer
- dental problems
Let your doctor know if you are breastfeeding.
The needle cover on the pre-filled syringe contains a derivative of latex. Inform your doctor if you have an allergy to latex.
Tell your doctor if you have previously been treated with certain medicines such as bisphosphonate (medicines used for bone disorders) or are taking a medicine called corticosteroids (e.g. prednisolone, dexamethasone).
Ensure an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D while being treated with Denosumab. Your doctor will advise you about how much of these supplements you may need to take.
Maintain good oral hygiene while being treated with this medicine. It is important to inform your doctor if you experience any problems with your mouth, teeth, or jaw.
Denosumab is available in different brands. Each brand of this medicine has its specific use and indications. Do not substitute your prescribed medicine with any other brands.
If you are going for certain dental treatment or surgery (e.g. tooth extraction), inform your dentist that you are using Denosumab.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- You may need to have pregnancy tests to check if Denosumab is suitable for you to use,
- Your doctor may do routine tests (e.g. blood tests, bone mineral density test, dental exam) while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
This medicine may cause any of the following side effects: bone, joint and/or muscle pain, arm or leg pain, abdominal discomfort, rash, constipation, infection of the upper airways and urinary tract.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- dental problems e.g. loose teeth, pain or swelling, non-healing sores or discharge
- signs of low calcium levels in the blood e.g. spasms, twitches or cramps in your muscles, and/or numbness or tingling in your fingers, toes or around the mouth, and/or seizures, confusion, loss of consciousness
- pain in the hip, thigh or groin area
- signs of skin infection e.g. red, swollen, tender area (commonly the lower leg) with fever
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking medicines for bone disorders e.g. bisphosphonates.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in the refrigerator, between 2-8°C. Do not allow to freeze. If frozen, this medicine will become ineffective and should not be used.
Keep this medicine in their original package to protect from light.
Do not shake this medicine.
Do not use this medicine if it becomes cloudy or if it has changed in colour.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
Return any unused or expired medicine to your pharmacist, clinic or hospital for disposal.
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