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Macrogol electrolyte renal caution — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardRenal and Hepatic ImpairmentMacrogol electrolyte renal cautionGPhC CRA

A patient with stage 4 CKD is booked for a first denosumab 60 mg injection. Corrected calcium remains below range despite supplementation. What is the safest plan?

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Correct answer: DDelay treatment, correct calcium and plan enhanced post-dose monitoring

Pre-existing hypocalcaemia is a contraindication to denosumab 60 mg and must be corrected before treatment. Severe renal impairment does not require a reduced denosumab dose, but it materially increases the risk of severe symptomatic hypocalcaemia and therefore supports calcium/vitamin D optimisation and post-dose calcium monitoring. Immediate antacid use and unreviewed zoledronate substitution do not solve the risk.

Reference: MHRA: denosumab calcium monitoring. https://www.gov.uk/drug-safety-update/denosumab-monitoring-recommended