Strontium ranelate, which is marketed under the name Protelos, is a non-hormonal medication used to treat osteoporosis in post menopausal females. Protelos is a unique medication because it serves a dual function. This medication decreases bone breakdown and also stimulates new bone formation unlike most medications for osteoporosis that do one or the other. The purpose of any osteoporosis medication is to reduce fractures, particularly in the hips and lumbar spine, due to reduced bone density and increased bone brittleness. Protelos succeeds in lowering frequency of fractures, but there are some side effects associated with use of this medication.
Common Side Effects
Most individuals who begin Protelos treatment will experience some minor side effects. Individuals may experience nausea, diarrhea, headache and eczema (skin irritation). The majority of the patients who experienced these mild effects did not have to discontinue Protelos therapy. These effects usually decrease during the first three months of therapy as the body gets used to Protelos.
Major Side Effects
A small percentage of patients who undergo Protelos therapy develop more severe side effects. Protelos may precipitate blood clot formation in the legs or lungs. Patients who experience stabbing pains or swelling in one leg, pain on breathing or coughing, shortness of breath or coughing up blood should contact their physician immediately and discontinue the medication. Protelos may also cause serious effects such as fainting, short-term memory loss and seizures. Once again, if these symptoms arise, contact a physician immediately.
Uncommon Side Effects
There is a list of symptoms that may arise from Protelos therapy , and individuals about to undergo Protelos therapy should be aware of even though they are very rarely reported. About 1 in 10,000 patients experience vomiting, abdominal pain, ulcers in the mouth and inflammation of the gums. If patients are hypersenstitive or allergic to Protelos they may experience itching, fever, hives, rash, swollen face, swollen tongue, difficulty breathing and difficulty swallowing. Allergic reactions of this type are serious and a physician should be contacted immediately.
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