ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
Don't stop or delay it without a plan; bone loss and spine fractures can rebound quickly after stopping.
What it's used for
- Osteoporosis
- Bone loss from some cancer treatments
- Bone problems from cancer (Xgeva)
How to take it
- Get a shot under the skin every 6 months, on time.
- Get enough calcium and vitamin D, and tell your dentist you take it.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Back, joint, or muscle pain
- Skin rash
Call your provider todayMuscle cramps, numbness, or tingling (low calcium)
Call your provider todayJaw pain or a mouth sore that won't heal
Call your provider todayNew thigh or groin pain
Call your provider todayFever or skin redness and swelling (infection)
Warnings
- Boxed warning (Prolia): severe low calcium in people with advanced kidney disease.
- Missing doses raises the risk of multiple spine fractures.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Few interactions.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Not used in pregnancy.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Get the shot as soon as possible, then every 6 months from that date.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Denosumab (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.