Patients call for greater transparency of Australia’s most common osteoporosis therapy

Pharma News: Consumers should be fully informed about the potential side effects of Australia’s most common osteoporosis treatment, according to the Consumers Health Forum of Australia (CHF). Concerns were sparked by recent media reports highlighting instances where consumers felt pressured or inadequately informed before using Amgen’s osteoporosis drug Prolia (denosumab).

“While Prolia is a safe drug, some consumers report that practitioners are not effectively communicating the risks, especially those related to side effects,” said CHF CEO Dr Elizabeth Deveny.

Prolia is administered via injection every six months and must be kept refrigerated, leading to logistical challenges that may prevent consumers from seeing the product’s informational leaflet. This has raised concerns that essential information about side effects isn’t reaching patients.

“What we are seeing being reported is a lack of information being provided to consumers at both points of care, which needs to be addressed. While the information leaflet is a useful addition, it can’t really replace the essential conversation,” added Dr Deveny.

Osteoporosis Australia, now operating as Healthy Bones Australia, organised a National Forum that brought together clinical experts to develop a Position Statement aimed at assisting general practitioners (GPs) in investigating and treating patients at risk of fragility fractures.

The Position Statement emphasises that first-line therapeutic options include bisphosphonates and Prolia, but it also outlines a critical precaution: if Prolia must be discontinued due to adverse reactions, patients should immediately start oral bisphosphonates to prevent a rapid drop in bone mineral density and a heightened risk of vertebral fractures.

CHF stressed the importance of transparent and timely communication between healthcare providers and patients.

“This essentially boils down to consumers being provided with up-to-date information by practitioners and dispensers while having the right to choice. Crucial information should be explained by the clinical team in a clear and engaging manner,” Dr Deveny stated.

CHF also highlighted the stressful and often confusing nature of navigating new medical treatments, especially for painful conditions like osteoporosis. Dr Deveny emphasised, “The understanding of the side effects of these treatments should not fully sit with the consumer and should be an open conversation between them and their healthcare provider.”

CHF believes that improving communication is a shared responsibility, advocating for clinical peak bodies and academic institutions to strengthen training in communication and interpersonal skills.

“We suggest all consumers seek out high-quality information on their prescribed medicine. Where they have questions, they should feel supported to explore these with the relevant providers and practitioners. It is also the duty of healthcare practitioners to ensure that consumers are engaging in quality questions and answers,” Dr Deveny concluded.

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