Denosumab – a new medication in the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a chronic, systemic skeletal disorder characterised by decreased bone density. It leads to an increased risk of bone fractures – one of the major causes of disability in modern societies. Bisphosphonates are the most commonly used medications in the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Denosumab, a new approach to fracture prevention, is a fully human monoclonal antibody that targets nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL), an important cytokine regulating formation and function of osteoclasts. Generally, denosumab is not used as initial therapy; however, in some cases it should be considered. It concerns patients at high risk of fracture, such as older patients who have difficulty with the dosing requirements of oral bisphosphonates or who have markedly impaired renal function. Denosumab can be also considered in patients who present intolerance or unresponsiveness to other therapies. Clinical studies have shown that denosumab is highly effective in increasing bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women regardless of the site analysed, as well as reducing the risk of bone fractures. The risk of developing antiresorptive, agent-induced osteonecrosis of the jaw related to denosumab therapy is low.