Indications
Protelos is a prescription oral medication used to treat severe osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and adult men at high risk of fracture. It is intended for long-term use and is not intended for use in children and adolescents (below the age of 18).
Protelos contains the active substance strontium ranelate and was available as 2 g sachets containing granules that are made up into an oral suspension. It works by strengthening bone and reducing the risk of fractures. Its active ingredient, strontium ranelate, is absorbed into the bone and helps to reduce bone breakdown while stimulating bone rebuilding.
Use and Dosage
Protelos (strontium ranelate) comes in granule form and should be taken as a suspension in a glass containing a minimum of 30 ml of water. This means that the sachets containing the granules must be mixed with water in a glass to form a suspension. It is recommended to use at least 30 ml of water to ensure that the granules are properly dissolved. The suspension can then be taken orally.
Take the Protelos suspension on an empty stomach, preferably at bedtime, and at least two hours after consuming food, milk, milk products, or calcium supplements. Avoid eating for at least two hours after taking the granules to ensure proper absorption of the medicine from the gut. Consuming food, milk, milk products, or calcium supplements simultaneously with the medicine can interfere with its absorption, making it less effective.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Protelos (Strontium Ranelate):
- Abdominal pain
- Cardiovascular
- Dermatological reactions
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Dyspepsia (indigestion)
- Headache
- Nausea
Forms and Strength
Protelos (Strontium Ranelate) is available in the following forms and strength:
Protelos: granules
- 2g
Cautions
- Protelos has been associated with an increased risk of heart problems, including stroke and heart attack.
- Protelos should be used with caution in patients who have a history of heart or circulatory problems.
- Protelos should be discontinued as soon as possible in patients who develop cardiovascular problems.
- Protelos should not be prescribed to patients who have a history of blood clots in their veins.
- In some cases, Protelos has been associated with serious skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
- Protelos should be used with caution in patients with a history of allergy or asthma. Speak with your doctor if you are considering taking Protelos, as they can advise you on the potential risks and benefits based on your individual health history and needs.
- Protelos has been associated with an increased risk of developing blood clots, especially in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism).
- Patients with severe kidney problems should use Protelos with caution, as it can potentially worsen their condition.
- Protelos use should be avoided in women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, as it can potentially harm the developing fetus.
- Take Protelos exactly as prescribed, and not to exceed the recommended dosage. Overdosing could increase the risk of side effects, including those related to the heart and circulation.
- Patients with an irregular heartbeat or a history of heart rhythm problems should use Protelos with caution, as it could potentially exacerbate these conditions.
- Protelos should not be taken in combination with other medications that contain strontium, as this could increase the risk of side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Protelos cause weight gain?
Weight gain is not a common side effect of Protelos. However, if you experience unexplained weight gain while taking Protelos, talk to your doctor.
Is Protelos safe for long-term use?
Protelos has been studied for up to 10 years in clinical trials, and long-term use has been shown to be safe and effective for the treatment of osteoporosis. However, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of long-term treatment.
Can Protelos be used to treat other conditions besides osteoporosis?
Protelos has only been approved for the treatment of severe osteoporosis in men and women, and should not be used to treat other conditions unless specifically recommended by your doctor.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Protelos?
If you miss a dose of Protelos, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is within two hours of your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
Resources
- https://www.londonosteoporosisclinic.com/strontium-ranelate-protelos-to-be-discontinued/
- https://www.servier.com.ve/sites/default/files/spc-pil/pil-protelos.pdf
- https://www.hpra.ie/docs/default-source/3rd-party-documents/educational-materials/protelos_hcp_prescriber-guide_v1-11-15.pdf?sfvrsn=2
- https://www.drugs.com/uk/protelos.html
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