Xgeva (generic name: denosumab) is a human monoclonal antibody prescribed to prevent bone fractures in people with bone cancer caused by solid tumors or in people with multiple myeloma. It is also used to treat Giant Cell tumors, which are a type of bone tumor when they cannot be removed with surgery, and high blood calcium levels that are caused by cancer that has not improved after taking a bisphosphonate drug.
Caution
Women of childbearing age should use effective methods of contraception while being treated with
Xgeva and for at least 5 months after stopping treatment. In case you become pregnant during treatment with Xgeva or within 5 months after stopping treatment, please inform your doctor immediately.
Dosage
Xgeva is administered only by professional healthcare providers. Please read the information on the manufacturer’s Product leaflet that comes with the medication and follow the doctor’s instructions. The usual recommended dosage is a single subcutaneous injection administered once every 6 months.
This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.
Possible side effects of Xgeva include:
- low calcium levels (especially if you have kidney problems)
- weakness
- constipation
- back pain
- muscle pain
- pain in the arms and legs
- anemia
- diarrhea
- skin problems (eczema, blisters, dry skin, peeling, redness, itching, small bumps)
There may be a greater likelihood of a severe infection, such as skin, ear, stomach/gut, or bladder infection while taking Xgeva.
Inform a doctor immediately if there are signs of infection while taking the medication, such as:
- fever/chills, night sweats
- red/swollen/tender/warm skin
- severe stomach or abdominal pain
- ear pain or drainage, trouble hearing
- frequent/painful/burning urination, or pink/bloody urine
- severe itching, burning, rash, blistering, peeling, or dryness of the skin
- cough or shortness of breath
- pinpoint purple or red spots under your skin
- flu symptoms
- weight loss
Please take time to read the manufacturer’s Product Insert that comes with the medication. Not all side effects are listed here. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience these or other unexpected effects.
Xgeva is used to treat people who have been diagnosed with Giant Cell bone tumor, which is a fast-growing noncancerous tumor if it cannot be removed with surgery. It is also used to prevent bone fractures in people with bone cancer caused by solid tumors or multiple myeloma, and to lower calcium levels in the blood caused by various bone cancers.