How does prolia work to treat osteoporosis?

Prolia, also known as denosumab, is a human monoclonal antibody used to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men at high risk of fractures [1]. It works by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, a type of bone cell responsible for breaking down bone tissue [2].

Osteoclasts are activated by a protein called RANKL, which is produced by osteoblasts, another type of bone cell. RANKL binds to its receptor, RANK, on the surface of osteoclasts, stimulating them to break down bone and release minerals such as calcium into the bloodstream [2].

Denosumab, the active ingredient in Prolia, binds to RANKL and prevents it from binding to RANK, thereby inhibiting the activation of osteoclasts and subsequent bone breakdown [3]. This leads to an increased bone mass and reduced risk of fractures.

The effectiveness of Prolia in treating osteoporosis has been demonstrated in numerous clinical trials, which have shown that it can significantly increase bone mineral density (BMD) and reduce the risk of vertebral and nonvertebral fractures [4].

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the patent for denosumab expired in 2023, making it a more affordable option for patients [5].

Sources:

[1] https://www.amgen.com/our-science/our-medicines/prolia
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4421111/
[3] https://pharmaceutical-journal.com/article/news/monoclonal-antibody-drug-denosumab-extended-label-includes-new-oncology-indications
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20398947
[5] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/1655/denosumab