This site is intended for health professionals only


NICE gives denosumab green light

By Lara Hutchins

NICE have given the go-ahead for denosumab - the first monoclonal antibody osteoporosis treatment – to be prescribed as an alternative to bisphosphonates for primary and secondary prevention of osteoporotic fractures in post-menopausal women.

Denosumab is given as a single 60mg/ml subcutaneous injection every six months and works by inhibiting osteoclast resorption.

The FREEDOM study measured the percentages of radio graphically detected spinal fractures at 36 months in patients receiving denosumab versus placebo, at 2.3% versus 7.2% respectively. Other findings support its benefit over placebo to prevent wrist and hip fractures.

NICE says post-menopausal women with osteoporosis and a T-score greater -2.5 who are bisphosphonate intolerant (or unable to follow the administration instructions) are eligible for denosumab if they meet one other criteria including maternal or paternal hip fracture and co-existing rheumatoid arthritis.


          

Visit Pulse Reference for details on 140 symptoms, including easily searchable symptoms and categories, offering you a free platform to check symptoms and receive potential diagnoses during consultations.