From the Guidelines
Prolia (denosumab) injections should be administered every 6 months, as this interval has been shown to provide optimal protection against bone loss and reduce the risk of fracture 1. The standard dose is 60 mg given as a subcutaneous injection in the upper arm, upper thigh, or abdomen. This medication is commonly prescribed for postmenopausal women with osteoporosis at high risk for fracture, men with osteoporosis, and patients receiving certain treatments for breast or prostate cancer that can cause bone loss. Key points to consider when administering Prolia injections include:
- Maintaining effective levels of the medication in the system to provide optimal protection against bone loss
- Keeping scheduled appointments to prevent reversal of bone-protective effects
- Monitoring for side effects such as back pain, pain in extremities, or hypocalcemia (low calcium levels)
- Recommending calcium and vitamin D supplementation alongside Prolia treatment to minimize the risk of hypocalcemia 1. It's essential to follow the healthcare provider's specific instructions regarding the treatment schedule, as the 6-month interval is crucial for maintaining the medication's effectiveness.
From the FDA Drug Label
The recommended dose of Prolia is 60 mg administered as a single subcutaneous injection once every 6 months. Administer Prolia via subcutaneous injection in the upper arm, the upper thigh, or the abdomen If a dose of Prolia is missed, administer the injection as soon as the patient is available. Thereafter, schedule injections every 6 months from the date of the last injection.
The recommended frequency for Prolia injection is every 6 months 2, 2, 2.
- Key points:
- The dose is 60 mg per injection.
- Injections should be administered by a healthcare professional.
- Patients should receive calcium 1000 mg daily and at least 400 IU vitamin D daily.
From the Research
Prolia Injection Frequency
- The frequency of Prolia (denosumab) injections is typically every 6 months 3.
- There is no direct information in the provided studies about the frequency of Prolia injections, but the standard treatment regimen is usually administered every 6 months.
Administration and Monitoring
- Patients receiving denosumab should be monitored for hypocalcemia, especially those with renal impairment or receiving dialysis 4, 5, 6.
- Calcium and vitamin D supplementation are recommended to prevent hypocalcemia 7, 5.
- Serum calcium levels should be monitored, especially in high-risk patients, to detect severe hypocalcemia early 5, 6.
Special Considerations
- Denosumab can be used in patients with osteoporosis, including those with renal impairment or receiving dialysis, but careful monitoring is necessary 4, 6.
- The efficacy and safety of denosumab have been demonstrated in various patient populations, including postmenopausal women and men with osteoporosis 7, 3.