Is Xgeva a chemotherapy drug?
No. Xgeva is not a chemotherapy drug. It is a targeted treatment, called a monoclonal antibody and is classified as a bone-modifying agent. Although it is not a chemotherapy drug it is often given with chemotherapy medicines.
Xgeva works as a RANK ligand (RANKL) inhibitor. RANKL is a protein that is essential for the formation and survival of osteoclasts - these are the cells responsible for bone resorption, which is the process during which osteoclasts break down bone tissue and release minerals, such as calcium from bone tissue to the blood. Some cancer tumors stimulate RANKL, increasing the activity of osteoclasts and causing bone pain and bone loss. Xgeva stops RANKL from binding to its receptor so reduces bone breakdown, bone loss, bone pain, and other bone complications.
Xgeva is used to prevent bone fractures and other skeletal conditions in people with tumors that have spread to the bone, in those with multiple myeloma, and in those with hypercalcemia of malignancy that has not responded to bisphosphonate therapy.
References
- Xgeva (denosumab) [Package Insert] 02/2020 Amgen Inc https://www.drugs.com/pro/xgeva.html
Read next
Xgeva vs Prolia. How do they compare?
Xgeva and Prolia are both brand names for the generic drug denosumab. Both are injectable preparations, both are made by Amgen, and both have similar side effects; but they differ in their indications, the way they are given, and their dosage. Continue reading
How long should you take Xgeva for?
Xgeva is meant to be taken long-term. However, Xgeva should be discontinued if you experience intolerable side effects or serious side effects such as osteonecrosis of the jaw or osteomyelitis, or if Xgeva appears to be ineffective for you. Continue reading
Does Xgeva cause bone pain?
Xgeva may cause pain in the bones, muscles, and joints. Xgeva may also rarely cause osteonecrosis of the jaw, a bone condition with symptoms such as jaw pain or persistent mouth pain. Conversely, Xgeva is more effective than zoledronic acid at extended the bone pain-free interval. Always report new or unusual thigh, hip, groin, bone, joint, muscle, or jaw pain to your doctor. Continue reading
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