Denosumab for breast cancer in men

A newer drug called denosumab (Xgeva^®, Prolia^®) is also now available to help lower the risk of fractures and other problems caused by breast cancer that has spread to the bone. It works differently from bisphosphonates. In studies of patients with breast cancer that had spread to the bone, it seemed to help prevent problems like fractures (breaks) better than zoledronic acid (Zometa). It also can help even after bisphosphonates stop working.

To treat cancer spread to bones, this drug is given as an injection under the skin every 4 weeks. Side effects include low blood levels of calcium and phosphate, as well as the jaw bone problem known as osteonecrosis of the jaw. This drug does not seem to affect the kidneys, so it is safe to give to patients with kidney problems.

Denosumab can also be used to make weak bones stronger in patients who are given treatments that lower androgen levels. This use has been studied in men being treated for prostate cancer, but it isn’t likely to be studied for this use in male breast cancer (since this disease is so rare). When given for this purpose, denosumab is given less often (usually every 6 months).