FORSTEO 20mcg / 80mcg injectible solution medication leaflet

H05AA02 • teriparatide • Systemic hormonal preparations, excluding sex hormones and insulins | Parathyroid hormones and analogues

Teriparatide is a medication used for the treatment of severe osteoporosis in adults, particularly in postmenopausal women, men at high risk of fractures, and patients with glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis. It is a synthetic form of parathyroid hormone (PTH) that stimulates bone formation by increasing the activity of osteoblasts (bone-forming cells).

Teriparatide is administered via subcutaneous injection, usually once daily, for a limited duration (typically up to 2 years), as prolonged use may increase the risk of adverse effects. Treatment with teriparatide can improve bone mineral density and significantly reduce the risk of vertebral and non-vertebral fractures.

Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, joint pain, muscle cramps, and injection site reactions. It is contraindicated in patients at increased risk of osteosarcoma (bone cancer), such as those with Paget's disease, prior radiation exposure, or elevated alkaline phosphatase levels.