Denosumab for Osteoporosis User Reviews (Page 3)
Brand names: Prolia, Xgeva, Jubbonti, Wyost, Ospomyv, Stoboclo, Bomyntra, Xbryk, Conexxence, Osenvelt …show all brand names
Reviews for Denosumab
- Gra...
- Taken for 6 months to 1 year
- June 27, 2016
"After getting my 2nd Prolia injection, I've had the worst 4 months of my life!! Within a couple of weeks, I went from a very young 70-year-old to a 90-year-old woman. My back and hips have been so painful that I have to wear a stiff back support to be able to move. Even with this, I can't stand up straight. I am awakened at night because of the pain, and I can't turn over in bed. I am constantly achy and tired. Before Prolia, I was extremely active. I worked with a personal trainer twice a week for six months, before the 2nd injection, but now, I have probably lost all the muscle, strength, and flexibility I gained. I put my gym membership on hold until I can move again without pain. Prolia is the worst!!"
- Ouc...
- May 28, 2016
"This has been the worst experience of my life. Two shots of Prolia and nothing but constant pain. Every bone in my body hurts, literally. I feel just awful all day long. Tired, washed out, constant pain that has been, at times, debilitating. Had to use crutches for two days when I developed severe hip pain and again when I developed severe knee pain. I am eating ibuprofen like it was a bag of M&M's. My cholesterol went high and I have never had a problem with cholesterol in my life (found out that it was yet another side effect). I have been to the ER twice and the walk-in clinic three times since starting Prolia. Two shots and I am done with it, no more."
Frequently asked questions
- How long should you take Xgeva for?
- How many years should you take Prolia?
- Is Xgeva a chemotherapy drug?
- Does Xgeva cause bone pain?
- DMD...
- February 20, 2016
"About 3 days after my Prolia shot, I had severe pain in my lower back, right side. Very different from regular lower back pain due to aging. My doctor prescribed physical therapy (not believing it was due to the Prolia injection) which provided temporary relief. But guess what!!! At the 6-month point, when the Prolia was out of my system, THE PAIN WENT AWAY. Duh. In the past, I took Fosamax (for 6 years) with no side effects. But...I am done with patent medicines. Am reading the book Your Bones, and plan on following their 'natural' approach. I did report my experience to the FDA; my doctor (who I really like) didn't react very seriously to my concerns, only listed it as an allergy on my chart. Don't docs ever talk to the FDA???????"
- Cyd...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- January 16, 2020
"I had my first Prolia injection in October and will never have another one! I now live with constant jaw pain, joint pain, and chronic fatigue. I’ve had to cut out many activities because I feel horrible and can barely get through my exercise class... my oncologist recommended I start on a bone strengthener in case my breast cancer spread. However, I have no evidence of cancer in my breast or anywhere at this point and refuse to feel this bad from a medication. Ladies, do your research before you follow everything your health care provider suggests!"
Are you taking this medicine?
Your review helps others make informed decisions.- MRa...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- February 3, 2020
"Since Prolia, I experience intense muscle and joint pain and stiffness in my hips, thighs, and down my legs after exercises such as walking, running, climbing stairs, cycling, or gardening. The pain starts during the exercise activity but grows in severity in the hours and days following, depending on how long the activity was and how demanding. I have changed from being a very active person to someone who worries about all events involving weight-bearing exercises because of the subsequent pain and discomfort, which affects my sleep and rest. I am waiting and hoping the side effects will wear off as time goes on. I have decided not to continue with the treatment unless I get reassurance from healthcare professionals that this is a temporary side effect and the benefits will be worth it, such as the deterioration in my bone density subsides. As it is, I have advanced osteoporosis."
- ang...
- August 25, 2015
"HORRIBLE side effects! Loose tooth, needed extraction. Dentist found a healthy root, no problem with tooth. Lumps formed in several places. Rashes, shortness of breath. Hoarseness, headaches, joint pain...many more complaints."
More FAQ
- Aus...
- May 27, 2015
"I, too, had the constant itching and felt like something was crawling on me. I used Gold Bond Extreme Moisture Lotion, which helped somewhat. I gained 15 pounds in a matter of 2 weeks, experienced shortness of breath on exertion, and felt confusion. This was only my first injection, and I am due for a second in 2 months, but I'm not sure if I want to go this route again. This is a monoclonal antibody, not a drug, and it affects the body differently. There is no antidote for this if you have a reaction, so you are stuck with the problems for quite some time."
- Sus...
- Taken for 6 months to 1 year
- January 20, 2020
"I had my second shot of Prolia in January 2017. I experienced SEVERE bone pain and many other horrible side effects. I still suffer from many of those side effects today in January 2020, and it has completely changed my life for the worst. The effects of the drug never leave your system, and I will never be the same."
- Anonymous
- October 16, 2016
"One shot in March 2016 and have experienced the worst seven months of my life, began with a headache so bad, I had an MRI three weeks after the shot and another two weeks before the headache stopped. Then the infections started - ear, bladder, kidneys, and chest. It has been a living hell, cost a fortune, and I can't even translate the pain and suffering. It would take a book that no one wants to read. And it's not done with me, after seven months, I have a chest infection now that I can't get rid of. Worst experience of my life!"
- Jan...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- May 20, 2023
"I have found my back pain is worse than ever, my immune system has declined, my cholesterol went way up, I developed a skin rash, and I still have a lack of appetite, muscle pain, headaches, nausea, swelling, jaw pain, chills, mouth and legs tingling, pain in my arms, sore throat, trouble sleeping, and more pain. I do not recommend the Prolia injection. It is bad, bad, bad, you start feeling miserable because the pain is unbearable."
- Han...
- December 1, 2018
"My wife was scheduled to take a Prolia injection for osteoporosis, but after we both read lots of reviews, she cancelled her appointment. Thank you for this valuable insight into the risks and benefits. Now, we do not know where to go or what to do about her osteoporosis, but it is time for further research on these drugs. Taking a 'drug from hell' is certainly not the answer."
- RNa...
- Taken for 2 to 5 years
- August 4, 2019
"Prior to Prolia, I completed bisphosphonate therapy initially for osteopenia which worsened to osteoporosis with a BMD of -2.9. I find Prolia to be an effective medication but with a price. Starting in March 2016, I received my shot with minor bone discomfort. Three months after my fourth shot in March 2018, I was diagnosed with cellulitis of my left arm. I continued on Prolia, as my BMD scores had improved to -2.6 and I had less back and hip pain. By September 2018, after 6 months of gastroenterology problems, I consulted a specialist. Completing a colonoscopy, I was diagnosed with microscopic lymphocytic colitis. Afraid to stop Prolia, as discontinuing this drug increases the risk of broken bones, including the spine. Recently, April 2019, I was diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation. Strike three. Do not start this drug. I am an extremely active adult, biking and hiking, and now what do I do? My endocrinologist denies Prolia is the culprit."
- DeD...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- July 10, 2019
"After going through numerous cancer treatments, my doctor insisted that I take a Prolia shot. BIG MISTAKE. My jawbone is deteriorating. I am losing teeth and now in the process of having to get dentures. There should be a class-action lawsuit as I would be the first to sign up. PLEASE, PLEASE think twice about taking this!"
- Lay...
- July 28, 2016
"After two shots, I had swelling in both elbows, a stiff neck, and pain. I am not sure if Prolia is the cause, but I will not risk it again or any drugs for osteoporosis. My immune system was compromised, and I have had several illnesses. I went from an active, fit person to not being able to perform simple everyday tasks without significant pain. I have had the worst 6 months of my life. Avoid this medication!"
- Jil...
- September 17, 2016
"Please do your homework before taking this awful drug. My Dr. never told me about any potential side effects, and I got them ALL. So sick for months with severe lower back pain radiating around the front. Severe upper GI issues with nausea and haven't been able to eat for months. Lost 15 lbs so fast that my skin is all wrinkles and loose. I look 20 years older than before taking this drug. Spent so much time at Dr's trying to figure out what was wrong with me, and all tests came back negative. Only possible thing is Prolia shot. Headaches, chronic fatigue, poor sleep. Ended up in ER thinking I was having a heart attack...pain was debilitating. At least I found out my heart is good. Have had 3 additional episodes like this. BEWARE"
- Ver...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- January 20, 2020
"My GP recommended I have the Prolia injection for my bone density. I read about the side effects but hadn’t seen this website, so went ahead on 5 Nov 2019. Within 24 hours, I experienced terrible pain in my left arm. The pain was in the bone. This occurred two days running before it subsided. I saw my GP two days later and told her of the pain and I said never again will I have this injection. She agreed. The pain went away but other symptoms attacked me. Extreme irritability, lethargy, bloating, loss of appetite. I visited my GP twice about the side effects. The second time (10 days ago), she recommended a strong probiotic. I took it and in two days the bloating had gone and my appetite began to return. The Prolia drug had attacked the good bacteria in my gut. After 10 days on the probiotic, I feel normal again. Three months and two weeks later, and it is out of my system."
- CMo...
- July 10, 2016
"Can anyone tell me how long it stays in your system, please? Had only one injection, won't have another but want to know if these awful side effects will subside in time now that I've decided to stop them. Thank you."
- Jud...
- Taken for less than 1 month
- February 14, 2017
"Had first Prolia shot 9 days ago and it has been debilitating. Will not get another! It is not worth the pain and discomfort. I have had major bladder problems, chills, fatigue, all the bones in my back ache, I can't sleep at night. I have to take Advil to relieve back pain or I can't function. Can't leave the house for long because of bladder issues. I called my Oncologist about possible bladder infection and was promptly advised that was not a side effect of Prolia even though bladder issues was listed as a possible serious side effect! I hope I don't have to suffer from this one shot as long as others have - it is truly life style restricting. I wish I had read these reviews before getting my 1st (and ONLY) shot."
- Tup...
- Taken for 6 months to 1 year
- August 26, 2016
"I am in the UK and therefore am 'lucky enough' not to have paid for my treatment. However, I understand this is a relatively expensive drug for the National Health Service to prescribe. I have had two six-monthly doses, and I will certainly not be having the third despite having severe osteoporosis. I have experienced no positive results from this drug, only debilitating pain, stiffness, and general flu-like symptoms which come and go regularly day and night with no prior warning. My worst experience was a spot on my lower jaw bone that grew until it literally erupted, leaving a 2mm diameter hole in the side of my face. (2 months of antibiotics) I can find no positive feedback to justify this drug's side effects."
- Jan...
- Taken for 1 to 2 years
- April 8, 2016
"I will never have this shot again. It made my skin loose & wrinkled. Researchers don't have a clue if this helps bones or not. I can tell you I completely regret trying Prolia. And hate seeing Blythe Danner doing this commercial."
- fir...
- February 6, 2017
"I received two Prolia shots because I was prescribed Femara after breast cancer. Prolia was supposed to offset the bone loss caused by Femara. I had a lot of pain in my muscles and bones after the first injection but thought I would get used to it. After the 2nd injection, I could hardly walk. It has been 7 months since the injection, and if anything, the pain is debilitating. I can't walk without a walker or cane, cannot turn over in bed at night. As far as the bone loss, I have no idea if it helped, but one thing I do know, I will never take another injection of Prolia. I would prefer the bone loss to the constant pain. I believe if I took the 3rd, I would die. I was a very active 71-year-old, mowed the yard, trimmed bushes, NOT NOW."
- BJa...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- December 26, 2019
"I am a 76-year-old female. First shot of Prolia on Nov 1, 2019. Side effects started after 3 days. I have always had very low BP. I felt so bad for 2 weeks, someone took my BP and it was very high. Other side effects include joint, shoulder, neck, and knee pain. Day and night sweats are very severe. My side effects aren't nearly as bad as some, so I shouldn't complain. Will not get a second shot."
- Sto...
- Taken for 2 to 5 years
- February 16, 2021
"Had my fifth shot of Prolia on December 8th, 2020. Will definitely not be taking this drug again. I found that with each passing injection, the symptoms became more severe. I have gone from being a very fit person to being totally disabled. Muscle weakness in thigh muscles and arms. Extreme pain in shoulders and arms. Very tight rib cage muscles. No energy. Extreme nausea. Discomfort in my throat. Dry cough at night. Muscle stiffness, twitching, cramps, and spasms. Severe right hip pain and sciatica pain. All of these started after taking Prolia."
- Cin...
- November 4, 2019
"I am stuck on this drug Prolia after 8 years on one injection to the stomach twice a year. I am too scared to continue and too scared to stop. My specialist has said we will review it at the 10 year mark. I worry about how my bones will be at the 10 year mark. I am 71 years old and was healthy except for two fractures in 2 years. I wish I had not started the drug in the first place. I wake up with pain during the night. I seem to need to sit down after walking in the shopping centre for 15 minutes. My thick hair has been falling out for the last 3 years. My skin and eyes are very dry. I have a wrinkled face of someone 15 years older. I am concerned that I will be in a wheelchair at some stage. I go to an exercise physiologist for strength and resistance training it has helped a lot. However over 1 year my abilities have reduced due to severe attacks of vertigo. I have also evidence (through MRI) of a few small strokes which I was not aware of. I only add this in case useful for others."
Are you taking this medicine?
Your review helps others make informed decisions.Learn more about Osteoporosis
Care guides
Symptoms and treatments
More about denosumab
- Check interactions
- Compare alternatives
- Reviews (396)
- Latest FDA alerts (1)
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- Patient tips
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: miscellaneous bone resorption inhibitors
- Breastfeeding
- En español
Patient resources
Other brands
Prolia, Xgeva, Jubbonti, Wyost
"After refusing this for the past 2 years, I finally relented and had the shot about 2 weeks ago. I felt okay for the first 3 days, after that, I experienced severe headache with immense fatigue that lasted for 2 days. The headache passed but still much fatigue, muscle pain & burning in arms & legs, lower back pain, ankles & hips. I should have followed my instincts. I am 66, do have osteoporosis (supposed bones of an 80-year-old). I will not be continuing with this."