Romosozumab is used to treat bone loss (osteoporosis)
for women after menopause who are at high risk of having broken bones
(fractures). It works by increasing bone density and strength. This effect
helps to decrease the risk of having a fracture.
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist
before you start using romosozumab and each time you get another dose. If
you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication is given by injection under the skin by
a health care professional. It is given as directed by your doctor, usually
once a month.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit
from it. Keep receiving this medication even if you feel well. Most people
with osteoporosis do not have symptoms. To help you remember, mark your
calendar with a reminder.
According to the manufacturer, you should not use this
drug for longer than 12 months.
See also Warning section.
Joint pain may occur. If this effect lasts or gets
worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- signs of low level of calcium in the blood (such as muscle
spasms, numbness/tingling of the hands/feet)
- new or unusual hip/thigh/groin pain
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
See also Warning section.
Before using romosozumab, tell your doctor or pharmacist
if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product
may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or
other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- low level of calcium in the blood
- heart problems (such as slow/irregular heartbeat, heart
failure, previous heart attack, chest pain)
- stroke or "mini-stroke"/transient ischemic attack (TIA)
- kidney disease
Some people using romosozumab may have serious jawbone
problems. Your doctor should check your mouth before you start this
medication. Tell your dentist that you are using this medication before you
have any dental work done. To help prevent jawbone problems, have regular
dental exams and learn how to keep your teeth and gums healthy. If you have
jaw pain, tell your doctor and dentist right away.
Before having surgery (especially dental procedures),
tell your doctor and dentist about all the products you use (including
prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Your
doctor or dentist may tell you to stop using romosozumab before your
surgery. Ask for specific instructions about stopping or starting this
medication.
This medication is not usually used by women of
childbearing age. It is unlikely to be used during pregnancy or
breastfeeding. Consult your doctor if you have any questions about this
medication.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as blood calcium level,
bone density) should be done while you are using this medication. Keep all
medical and lab appointments.
Lifestyle changes that help promote healthy bones
include increasing weight-bearing exercise, stopping smoking, limiting
alcohol, and eating well-balanced meals that contain adequate calcium and
vitamin D. You may also need to take calcium and vitamin D supplements.
Consult your doctor for specific advice.
It is important to get each dose of this medication as
scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for
a new dosing schedule.
Not applicable. This medication is given in a doctor's
office and will not be stored at home.