-
DENOSUMAB (den oh SUE mab) prevents weakened bones caused by cancer. It may also be used to treat noncancerous bone tumors that cannot be removed by surgery. It can also be used to treat high calcium levels in the blood caused by cancer. It works by blocking a protein that causes bones to break down quickly. This slows down the release of calcium from bones, which lowers calcium levels in your blood. It also makes your bones stronger and less likely to break (fracture). It is a monoclonal antibody.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
-
This medication is for injection under the skin. It is given by your care team in a hospital or clinic setting.
A special MedGuide will be given to you before each treatment. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 13 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
-
Do not take this medication with any of the following:
-Other medications containing denosumab
This medication may also interact with the following:
-Medications that lower your chance of fighting infection
-Steroid medications, such as prednisone or cortisone
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
-
Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medication. You may need blood work while taking this medication.
This medication may increase your risk of getting an infection. Call your care team for advice if you get a fever, chills, sore throat, or other symptoms of a cold or flu. Do not treat yourself. Try to avoid being around people who are sick.
You should make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D while you are taking this medication, unless your care team tells you not to. Discuss the foods you eat and the vitamins you take with your care team.
Some people who take this medication have severe bone, joint, or muscle pain. This medication may also increase your risk for jaw problems or a broken thigh bone. Tell your care team right away if you have severe pain in your jaw, bones, joints, or muscles. Tell your care team if you have any pain that does not go away or that gets worse.
Talk to your care team if you may be pregnant. Serious birth defects can occur if you take this medication during pregnancy and for 5 months after the last dose. You will need a negative pregnancy test before starting this medication. Contraception is recommended while taking this medication and for 5 months after the last dose. Your care team can help you find the option that works for you.
-
Keep appointments for follow-up doses. It is important not to miss your dose. Call your care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.
-
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
-Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
-Low calcium level—muscle pain or cramps, confusion, tingling, or numbness in the hands or feet
-Osteonecrosis of the jaw—pain, swelling, or redness in the mouth, numbness of the jaw, poor healing after dental work, unusual discharge from the mouth, visible bones in the mouth
-Severe bone, joint, or muscle pain
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
-Cough
-Diarrhea
-Fatigue
-Headache
-Nausea
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
-
This medication is given in a hospital or clinic. It will not be stored at home.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
DISCLAIMER: This drug information content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Patients should always consult their physician with any questions regarding a medical condition and to obtain medical advice and treatment. Drug information is sourced from GSDD (Gold Standard Drug Database ) provided by Elsevier.
En Español
