← Return to Discontinuing Prolia (denosumab): How can it be done safely?

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@colleenyoung

@mariannepp, my mother has been on Prolia for years and it was the right choice for her.

From Mayo Clinic:
"...some women aren’t sufficiently helped by bisphosphonates, and some can’t take them due to issues with swallowing, stomach upset, heartburn, low-functioning kidneys, or other side effects, such as bone or muscle aches.
...the drug denosumab (Prolia) has emerged as an alternative to bisphosphonates for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Denosumab may be considered a first-line treatment for women with osteoporosis who are at high risk of fracture or in women who can’t take bisphosphonates. Since denosumab isn’t metabolized by the kidneys, it’s also a first-line option for women with more advanced chronic kidney disease." Read more:
- Mayo Clinic Q and A: Finding the right osteoporosis medication https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-finding-the-right-osteoporosis-medication/

This article outlines the function of the various medication options available:
- Osteoporosis treatment: Medications can help https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoporosis/in-depth/osteoporosis-treatment/art-20046869
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I'm sorry that you feel doctor are "pushing you to take it." That's not a good feeling and you want to feel confident in the treatment you will be taking. Sometimes online forums like this one can cause fear about medication. Rather than instilling fear, I encourage you to use the experiences you learn here to ask your doctor questions and to make an informed decision with your doctor.

Prolia might be right for you, but ask why. Here are a few of the questions I suggest:
- Of all the medication options, why is Prolia your first treatment choice for me?
- How long will I have to take Prolia?
- Is it safe to take Prolia long term (for the rest of my life)?
- What if it stops working?

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Replies to "@mariannepp, my mother has been on Prolia for years and it was the right choice for..."

This is the third doctor to recommend prolia. I have osteoporosis AND I am a faller. Just a couple of weeks ago, I fell and broke 4 ribs. X-rays shows osteoporotic bones. Regarding the rebound effect, he answered, then I would be weaned off gradually. I just really don't want prescription meds!

I was 'pushed' to take HRT as a young post menopausal woman, and of course, developed breast cancer that was estrogen receptive. NO WONDER I HATE PRESCRIPTION MEDS!

Overall, I feel good at age 76......... but fear a hip fracture. UGH!