Prolia - Ask Dr. Lani
Question:
Dr. Lani,
What do you think of the new drug called "Prolia" that recently came out for osteoporosis?
Karen T
Answer:
For those of you who are not familiar with Prolia, this is what is known about the drug:
Prolia (Denosumab) is the new drug approved by the FDA to treat osteoporosis patients.
Prolia Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
Prolia does not carry any black box warnings and has not been associated with any recalls.
Other Warnings:
Patients undergoing treatment with Prolia are at risk of experiencing the following serious complications:
Common side effects:
- Back pain
- Extremity pain
- Musculoskeletal pain
- Hypercholesterolemia
- Cystitiis
More serious and as of now, rare side effects:
- Low calcium levels
- Severe infections
- Skin problems
- Serious jawbone problems
Patients should discuss these risks and ways to reduce them with their doctor before beginning treatment with Prolia.
A new drug does not mean it is better. Frankly, I hold back for a very long time because until the drug is out in the population for years, it is unknown what side effects will emerge. A good example is the bisphosphonate medications causing fractures after extended use.
A medical doctor once told me a saying among his colleagues:
- After 3 years offer a new drug to patients
- After 5 years your friends
- After 7 years your family
Many side effects are not seen for years after a drug is released, and in some cases it takes much longer than 7 years. It takes time to sort out studies that often are at odds with each other.
Please send in your questions to DoctorLani@gmail.com