Official answer. Yes, Prolia (denosumab) does increase bone density. Research has shown that Prolia significantly increased bone mineral density (BMD) by 8.8% at the lumbar spine, 6.4% at the total hip, and 5.2% at the femoral neck in trials that measured BMD after three years of treatment with Prolia.
(BMD is a measurement that shows how strong your bones are.) Females taking Reclast had a 0.6% increase in BMD in their hip bone after 12 months of treatment. In comparison, females taking Prolia had an increase of 1.9% in the BMD in their hip bone after 12 months.
The cells responsible for breaking down bone need RANKL in order to work and survive. By keeping RANKL from binding to its receptor, Prolia limits the ability of these cells to break down bone. As a result, Prolia helps strengthen bone and increase bone mass.
Osteoporosis is not reversible, but medication, a nutrient-dense diet, and weight bearing exercise can help prevent further bone loss and rebuild bones.
It is unclear if the benefits outweigh the risks. Independent medical experts recommend that women get a bone density screening once they are 65 years old. If you have a condition that puts you at higher risk of osteoporosis, only then is it necessary to be screened earlier.
Answer. Denosumab (brand name Prolia) is a medication used to treat severe osteoporosis. It works by turning off the natural process of breaking down and reabsorbing bones. It is administered through a shot twice per year for up to 10 years.
Bisphosphonates are usually the first choice for osteoporosis treatment. These include: Alendronate (Fosamax), a weekly pill. Risedronate (Actonel), a weekly or monthly pill.
Exercise
Just 30 minutes of exercise each day can help strengthen bones and prevent osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercises, such as yoga, tai chi, and even walking, help the body resist gravity and stimulate bone cells to grow. Strength-training builds muscles which also increases bone strength.
Rare, long-term side effects of Prolia include fractures of the spine or femur (thighbone). These are serious. The fractures may require surgeries, take several months to heal, or both. Before you start Prolia treatment, talk with your doctor about how long Prolia's side effects may last.
Prolia reduced the risk of vertebral fractures by 4.8%, hip fractures by 0.3%, and nonvertebral fractures by 1.5%. Bone mineral density was increased by 8.8% in the spine, 6.4% in the hip, and 5.2% in the neck after three years of treatment with Prolia.
Boniva (ibandronate), Fosamax (alendronate), and Prolia (denosumab) are effective osteoporosis medications. Boniva and Fosamax are available as oral medications. Prolia is only available as a subcutaneous injection. Fosamax is usually the first-choice option for osteoporosis.
You should take calcium and vitamin D as your doctor tells you to while you receive Prolia®. After your treatment with Prolia® is stopped, or if you skip or delay taking a dose, your risk for breaking bones, including bones in your spine, is increased.
The majority of commercial and Medicare plans cover Prolia®. The list price for Prolia® is $1,564.31 †,‡ per injection every six months.
Bisphosphonates. For both men and women at increased risk of fracture, the most widely prescribed osteoporosis medications are bisphosphonates.
Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, jogging, and climbing stairs, can help you build strong bones and slow bone loss. Avoid substance abuse.
Studies have also shown that a moderate intake of certain alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages like wine, beer and tea may also be good for your bones. More research is also needed to better help us to better understand the relationship between these drinks and bone health.
Symptoms may include jaw pain or numbness, red or swollen gums, loose teeth, gum infection, or slow healing after dental work.
The most common side effects of Prolia are fatigue (45%), body weakness and lack of energy (45%), back pain (35%), low phosphate levels (32%), nausea (31%) and diarrhea (20%).