Denosumab - Stepwards

Page Contents

1 WHAT IS IT?
2 WHEN DO WE USE IT?
3 WHEN DO WE AVOID USING IT?
4 HOW IS IT ADMINISTERED?
5 WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS/TOXICITY?
6 ANYTHING ELSE TO KEEP IN MIND?
7 FURTHER READING

WHAT IS IT?

Denosumab is an antibody targeting the RANK ligand. This inhibits osteoclast maturation (and mimics the action of osteoprotegerin) which relies upon RANK ligand binding the RANK receptor.

Mechanism of action of denosumab (source)

WHEN DO WE USE IT?

Osteoporosis

WHEN DO WE AVOID USING IT?

In patients with hypocalcemia (pre-existing hypocalcemia must be corrected before usage).

May cause fetal harm if administered during pregnancy.

HOW IS IT ADMINISTERED?

Subcutaneous administration (do NOT inject into muscles/blood stream)

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS/TOXICITY?

Hypocalcemia, bone pain (such as back pain)

ANYTHING ELSE TO KEEP IN MIND?

Ending-“man” refers to “monoclonal antibody”