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How long will the side effects of Prolia last?

Medically reviewed by Melisa Puckey, BPharm. Last updated on Feb 7, 2024.

Official answer

by drugclasses.com

The most common side effects of Prolia are fatigue (45%), body weakness and lack of energy (45%), back pain (35%), low phosphate levels (32%), nausea (31%) and diarrhea (20%).

It is difficult to say what will happen with these side effects. Some may go away or get worse or new side effects may develop as treatment goes on. Prolia stays in your body for over 4 months so some of these side effects can last a long time.

Another side effect of Prolia is that it can cause an increase in bone breaks when you stop using it. This increase in fractures can start as early as 7 months after you stop it and can include cracks or breaks of the vertebrae.

For more side effect information click here: https://www.drugclasses.com/sfx/prolia-side-effects.html

Here's a link to patient reviews of Prolia: https://www.drugclasses.com/comments/denosumab/prolia-for-osteoporosis.html

References

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What's the difference between Prolia and Reclast?

Prolia (denosumab) and Reclast (zoledronic acid) are injections that can be used to treat or prevent osteoporosis. But they each work differently because Prolia is a monoclonal antibody (it may also be called a miscellaneous bone resorption agent) and Reclast is a bisphosphonate which means they have different side effects, other uses, tolerability, and effectiveness profiles. Both are prescription medicines. One of the main problems with Prolia is safely stopping it. Continue reading

Does Prolia weaken your immune system?

Yes, Prolia does appear to weaken your immune system. Research has shown people who take Prolia are at an increased risk of serious infections leading to hospitalizations, including endocarditis and serious infections of the skin, abdominal, urinary tract, and ear. People administered concomitant immunosuppressant agents (such as prednisone or cyclosporine) or with impaired immune systems may be at an even higher risk. Continue reading

Does Prolia cause weight gain?

Prolia (denosumab) has not been associated with weight gain in clinical studies. Prolia can cause peripheral edema (fluid retention) or swelling, and this may lead to weight gain in some people. Continue reading

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