Whether you ar receiving Protelos as your first medicine for osteoporosis or have previously tried other medicines it is natural to have some questions What do I need to know about Protelos

Protelos, which is also known as strontium ranelate, is a treatment for postmenopausal osteoporosis. Osteoporosis can also be regarded as thinning of the bones. Protelos has been shown to strengthen bones by helping certain bone cells build new bone and slow down cells that cause bone loss.  By strengthening bones, Protelos is proven to reduce the risk of experiencing a fracture in the future which can happen with osteoporosis.

The benefits of Protelos have been observed as early as 1 year after starting the first box and have been seen to continue up to 8 years, so it is important to work out how Protelos can fit into your every day routine.

It is recommended that you take your Protelos at bedtime as this was suitable for most patients in the studies that showed the benefits.  However, as long as you separate your Protelos from food and milky drinks by 2 hours (either side of taking Protelos) you will maximise your body’s ability to absorb the medicine.

If you would like to talk more about this with a trained nurse it is important to know that all Protelos patients are eligible for a free support programme provided by the makers of Protelos.  The programme is called Embrace and you can register by simply calling freephone 0800 678 5608.

I don’t have any symptoms so why have I been prescribed Protelos?

Often there aren’t any symptoms experienced from having osteoporosis.  It is likely your doctor has diagnosed your condition as a result of a scan that looks at the density of your bones, a DXA scan, an X-ray or because you have previously had a fracture from a trip or a small fall. 

Your doctor has prescribed you Protelos to help strengthen your bones and reduce the risk that one of your bones may break.  Even though you may not have symptoms and even if you experience any mild side effects initially, it is important that you try to continue to take Protelos in the long term. However, if you feel that any side effects concern you, in any way, please consult your doctor.

I have recently broken a bone so is it too late for treatment?

Even though you may have already broken a bone, Protelos can still help you. 
It is likely that you broke a bone because your bones have been thinning and have become weaker without any symptoms.  Protelos has been shown to strengthen bones and help reduce the chances of you having another fracture.  Even in patients who have had previous fractures, Protelos was still able to reduce their risk of another fracture so it is recommended that you try to work out how Protelos can fit into your every day routine for the long term.

Are there any side effects with Protelos and what should I do if I get them?

The most common side effects experienced by patients taking Protelos in the clinical trials were nausea and diarrhoea but these tended to be mild and transient and most patients managed to continue their medication for the long term.

However, if you feel any side effects that concern you in any way, please consult your doctor.

What should I do if it is not convenient for me to take my Protelos at bedtime?

Whilst it is recommended to take Protelos at bedtime this may not be the most convenient time for everyone.  The important thing to remember is that your body will have the best chance to absorb the active ingredient of Protelos if it is taken 2 hours before or after food, milky products or calcium supplements.  So if there is a more convenient time of the day that allows your Protelos to be separated by food by at least 2 hours then this is an alternative option.

By giving your body the best chance to absorb it, Protelos will help to strengthen your bones and reduce your risk of having a fracture.

If you think you need more help and advice on this topic it is important to know that all Protelos patients are eligible for a free support programme provided by the makers of Protelos, Servier Laboratories Ltd.  This programme is called Embrace and you can register by simply calling freephone 0800 678 5608.

embrace You are entitled to additional nurse support provided by the makers of Protelos, Servier Laboratories. To find out more, click here. We also highly recommend you visit the National Osteoporosis Society website for further support and to register as a member.