denosumab

Denosumab is an emerging new treatment for osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men with non-metastatic prostate cancer. It is largely used by specialists as an alternative treatment in patients with contraindications to traditional, more commonly used drugs such as bisphosphonates. One important side effect is hypocalcaemia, which may be life threatening. The risk of this is increased in renal impairment, mainly if eGFR < 30 ml/min/1.73m2, and is exacerbated by vitamin D insufficiency.