Denosumab (Prolia) is a fully human monoclonal antibody directed against 
receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL), which interferes with 
the formation, activation, and survival of osteoclasts. It was approved by the 
Food and Drug Administration in June 2010 as a new treatment for postmenopausal 
osteoporosis in women who are at high risk for fracture. Given its mechanism of 
action, it is an antiresorptive therapy that is administered as a 60-mg 
subcutaneous injection every 6 months. It is the first biologic antiresorptive 
therapy for osteoporosis, and the first osteoporosis therapy to show efficacy 
and safety in patients with renal impairment.