Teriparatide

What is Teriparatide for?

Teriparatide (Forteo®) is used to treat osteoporosis (bone loss) in men and women who are at high risk of fracture. It is made similar to our body's parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH is important to maintain healthy bones. Teriparatide works by stimulating new bone formation and increasing bone strength therefore reducing the risk of fracture.

How should I take or use Teriparatide?

Teriparatide is given by injection (pre-filled pen) under the subcutaneous layer (fatty layer of the skin) into the thigh or abdomen. The dose for teriparatide is 20mcg once daily up to 2 years. For the first few doses, take the injection where you can sit or lie down as some people may feel dizzy after using Forteo. This usually happens within 4 hours after taking Forteo and goes away within a few hours.

What should I do if I forget to take or use Teriparatide?

If you forget your dose, inject it as soon as possible on the same day. If it is almost time to inject your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not have double injections on the same day as it may increase chances of experiencing unwanted side effects. For subsequent doses, go back to the original timing.

What precautions should I take when taking or using Teriparatide?

Inform your doctor if you have or have had calculi or stones in the urinary tract or low blood pressure. Other medications such as diuretics and digoxin may interfere with teriparatide. Do inform your doctor as well.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use Teriparatide?

Before you take Forteo, inform your healthcare provider if you are taking any herbal medications, medications such as digoxin or have any other medical conditions.

What are some common side effects of Teriparatide?

Common side effects that you may encounter when you use this medication

1. Injection site reaction : Redness of the skin, pain, swelling, itching, bruising or minor bleeding
2. Feeling light-headed or dizzy. Sit or lie down until you feel better. If you do not feel better, inform your doctor.
3. Nausea, Leg Cramps, Muscle spasms

You can inform your healthcare professional if you experience other side effects other than the above that is making you feel unwell.

How should I store Teriparatide?

• Keep away from children
• Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight

How should I handle Teriparatide safely?

Teriparatide has to be stored in the fridge where the temperature stays between 2-8^oC. Do not use if teriparatide has been frozen. Each pre-filled pen can be used up to 28 days after the first injection. After the 28 day, discard the pen even if it contains some unused solution.  Teriparatide is a clear and colourless liquid. Do not use if solid particles appear or if the solution is cloudy or coloured.

Patients who administer Forteo should receive appropriate training and instruction on the proper use of the device from a qualified healthcare professional.

What else should I know about Teriparatide?

You may be recommended to supplement vitamin D and calcium when you start this medication

What should I do if I overdose?

Seek medical help nearest to you by visiting the Accident and Emergency Department. Signs and symptoms of overdose may include high blood calcium levels, dizziness, light-headed on standing up. Nausea, vomiting and headache may also occur.