P02 Osteoporosis management when denosumab therapy ends: an audit of current practice

Abstract

Abstract Background In recent years denosumab therapy has been widely used in the treatment of osteoporosis. However, since its first introduction to clinical practice, evidence has demonstrated discontinuation leads to rebound bone loss and risk of vertebral fracture. In view of this, guidance has been updated recommending transition to an alternative osteoporosis therapy. Given that osteoporosis management is largely managed in primary care, we performed this audit to investigate whether this educational message was being effectively relayed to primary care clinicians. Methods In this study, we closed the audit loop of a previous study of the first 50 patients commenced on denosumab at University Hospital Southampton in 2013; we explored the percentage of patients remaining on denosumab 6 years later, using the hospital electronic system, which is linked to the general practice electronic system, to confirm prescriptions for osteoporosis therapy. In cases where it was unclear, letters were written, or telephone calls were made to general practices for clarification. Continuation of denosumab or use of an alternative agent was then recorded. Results Nineteen (38%) patients had died since the initial audit, reflecting the use of the agent in later life post hip fracture. Of 15 patients no longer on denosumab, 9 (60%) were found not to be on alternative bone protection without other information recorded, 1 (7%) had denosumab suspended by the GP (with the presumption it may be restarted at a later date), 1 (7%) had denosumab suspended due to recurrent cellulitis with the view to reassess in a year and 3 (20%) were on alternative therapy. One patient was recorded as being on a ‘drug holiday’. Of 16 patients remaining on denosumab, 13 (81%) had pre-injection calcium level checks, and 12 (75%) had a recorded pre-injection renal function check. Conclusion These data reflect inappropriate widespread discontinuation of denosumab without follow-on with an alternative osteoporosis therapy, suggesting that targeted education of primary care physicians is necessary. A high proportion of patients on denosumab are having the relevant blood tests in primary care as per clinical guidelines. Disclosures J. Zhang None. M.A. Clynes None. C. Cooper None. E.M. Dennison None.