What is "denosumab"

n. A human monoclonal antibody which is being studied in the treatment of bone disorders such as osteoporosis.

Denosumab ( trade names Prolia and Xgeva) is a human monoclonal antibody for the treatment of osteoporosis, treatment-induced bone loss, metastases to bone, and giant cell tumor of bone.

The most common side effects are joint and muscle pain in the arms or legs. Denosumab is contraindicated in people with low blood calcium levels. Denosumab is a RANKL inhibitor, which works by preventing the development of osteoclasts which are cells that break down bone. It was developed by the biotechnology company Amgen.