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Romla's avatar
Romla
Member
8 years ago

Prolia reduces risk of bc recurrence and helps prevent fractures for those on AIs

Hi ladies me again - just a copy of an email to Christian Porter MP to explain why Prolia should be PBS price for bc patients.Hopefully is clearer explanation

Many women who have estrogen positive breast cancer - the most common form of breast cancer- are prescribed hormone therapy to prevent recurrence .Post- menopausal women are prescribed drugs called Aromatase Inhibitors. 

Aromatase Inhibitors are taken usually for 5 years and whilst considered highly effective in preventing recurrence of breast cancer do have the side effect of thinning bones and causing fractures. Administration of Denosumab injections(trade name Prolia)  six monthly counteracts this effect and in addition further reduces recurrence of breast cancer significantly. http://www.breastcancer.org/research-news/prolia-reduces-recurrence-risk-for-some

Currently Prolia is only available on the PBS to women over 70 or those who have an existing fracture. The cost of Prolia to those unable to access the PBS price is high- $275 for each  6 monthly injection -  and difficult for many to afford especially as the costs of breast cancer treatment has already been substantial.

Could not women suffering breast cancer who are placed on Aromatase Inhibitors -and at the outset of hormone therapy are osteoporotic as indicated by low T scores also be granted access to Prolia at the PBS price rather than wait to suffer the severe pain of a fracture and in addition receive the benefit of a further reduction in  the risk  of breast cancer recurrence this drug provides.


4 Replies

  • Cath62's avatar
    Cath62
    Member
    2 years ago
    Totally agree, @Afraser, these meds are not to be taken unless there is a clear indication for it and AI's are not one of them. The side effects, especially for the jaw and dental work are very serious. The WHO has information on their website about osteoporosis and when prolia is indicated. Best discuss with your oncologist. 
  • Pommy8's avatar
    Pommy8
    Member
    2 years ago
    Thanks again for advice.
    I've not got to osteoporosis yet I'm osteopina .
    Disappointing as I thought I was doing well on tablets .
  • Afraser's avatar
    Afraser
    Member
    2 years ago
    It depends a lot on how bad the osteoporosis is and what other options are available. 

    From the Women’s National Health Network (US)

    Prolia, with the generic name Denosumab, is a type of monoclonal antibody, which stops the natural breakdown of bones. Prolia is injected two times per year. It should only be used if other treatment methods have failed or by post-menopausal women who have severe osteoporosis. The National Women’s Health Network suggests women try other FDA-approved osteoporosis medications prior to trying Prolia. This drug has a long list of side effects and it’s also important to note that long-term risks are unknown. The FDA Medication Guide lists the potential health problems, which include serious infections, thighbone fractures, and jaw bone problems. It is unclear if the benefits outweigh the risks.

    My understanding, from my oncologist, is that any gains may be reversed if side effects result in stopping use of the drug. Jawbone problems can complicate any dental work. I know some people have found it very helpful but I think it’s worth a detailed discussion with an oncologist about specific benefits for an individual case. 
  • Pommy8's avatar
    Pommy8
    Member
    2 years ago
    Has anyone refused tablets or prolia jab for osteopina. 
    Taking letrozole for 18 months and seem fine.
    Had endoscopy my oshopgus very red they said will need to stop sodium tablets which I was happy to take but if next step prolia jab I'm thinking of refusing .
    Just seems take a tablet helps with what it's supposed to but gives you something else.