Prolia (generic name Denosumab) is a new medication that is a subcutaneous (given just under the skin) injection every six months.  Although the end point that the medication effects is similar to Fosamax and like medications ie. Actonel, Boniva, Reclast, and Atelvia, to decrease bone loss and reduce fracture, they work through different mechanisms.

Our first line therapy, continues to be Fosamax and like medications (Actonel, Boniva, Reclast, Atelvia).  Denosumab is a good choice of medications for people who have any degree of kidney failure and prohibits them to use the other medications.

Their side effect profile will be different, but the most common rare side effect to Fosamax and like medications is Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ), this occurs with the same frequency in Prolia as in  Fosamax (and like medications).

Of note, Prolia is not FDA-approved for the treatment of "osteopenia."