What Is the Relationship between Denosumab and Cancer?

The relationship between denosumab and cancer directly relates to possible treatment plans for cancer patients. Denosumab is a medication that may be prescribed for people with certain types of cancer. It does not kill the cancer cells, but it can help prevent some potential complications, like broken bones. Patients who are at risk of losing bone mass and developing fractures should discuss denosumab and cancer treatments with their doctors.

Breast cancer patients who have weak, brittle bones may be able to use denosumab. They must also be undergoing treatment with aromatase inhibitors. Denosumab and cancer therapies may be used at the same time, but breast cancer patients typically only receive denosumab every six months. This drug may help patients who have not had success with bisphosphonates, which are also intended to help prevent fractures.

Men with prostate cancer may also benefit from this drug. It is typically used in prostate cancer patients who are also undergoing treatment with androgen deprivation therapies. Denosumab and cancer treatments for these patients may also be used simultaneously to help increase bone mass.

Denosumab may also be given as an injection, once per month, as part of the treatment for other types of cancer that have metastasized, or spread, to the patient's bones. This drug may also help to delay the spreading of prostate cancer to the bones. In studies denosumab has not been shown to completely halt the spread of cancer to the bones, or to ultimately increase survival rates.

Patients undergoing treatment with denosumab should be aware of the possible side effects. Some minor side effects may occur, including fatigue, weakness, nausea, diarrhea, and headaches. Patients should discuss these side effects with their doctors if they become severe.

More serious side effects require a doctor's urgent care. Denosumab may sometimes cause low levels of calcium in the blood, which is indicated by burning or numbness in the digits or around the mouth, as well as muscle spasms or cramps. It may also cause low levels of phosphate, indicated by muscle pain, seizures, and loss of appetite. Other serious side effects may include gum ulcers, numbness or swelling of the jaw, and shortness of breath. Damage to the jaw, called osteonecrosis, may sometimes occur.

Before patients consider using denosumab and cancer therapies, they must disclose their other medical conditions, medications, and supplements. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should discuss the risks with their doctors. It may be contraindicated for use by those who have multiple myeloma.