Why is this medication prescribed?

Teriparatide injection is prescribed to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and in men who are at high risk for bone fractures. Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weakened bones, making them more susceptible to fractures. Teriparatide is a synthetic form of parathyroid hormone (PTH), which helps to stimulate bone formation and increase bone density, thereby reducing the risk of fractures. It’s usually prescribed when other treatments for osteoporosis have not been effective or are not suitable for the patient.

How should this medicine be used?

Teriparatide injection is typically self-administered by the patient once daily. It’s important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider carefully. Here are general guidelines for using teriparatide injection:

• Injection Site: Teriparatide is usually injected into the thigh or abdomen. Rotate injection sites to minimize the risk of irritation or discomfort.
• Preparation: Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the medication. Ensure that the injection site is clean.
• Administration: Use the injection device provided with the medication. Follow the instructions for loading the dose and injecting the medication carefully. Your healthcare provider will show you how to use the device properly.
• Storage: Store the medication as directed by the manufacturer. Some formulations of teriparatide require refrigeration, while others can be stored at room temperature. Check the package insert for specific storage instructions.
• Timing: Take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in your body.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• Duration of Treatment: Your healthcare provider will determine how long you need to take teriparatide based on your individual condition. Follow their instructions carefully, even if you start to feel better.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may perform regular bone density tests and monitor your progress while you’re taking teriparatide. Keep all scheduled appointments to track your response to treatment.

Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about how to use teriparatide injection properly. They can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and individual needs.

Other uses for this medicine

While teriparatide injection is primarily used for the treatment of osteoporosis, it may also have off-label uses in certain cases, as determined by healthcare providers. These off-label uses might include treating certain bone disorders or conditions associated with bone loss. However, the primary approved use of teriparatide is for osteoporosis.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using teriparatide injection, it’s essential to follow some special precautions:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any other medical conditions you have and any medications you are currently taking. This information can help prevent potential interactions or complications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Teriparatide is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Discuss with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Bone Cancer Risk: Teriparatide should not be used in patients who have a history of bone cancer or other skeletal malignancies. It’s essential to discuss any history of cancer with your healthcare provider before starting teriparatide.
• Hypercalcemia: Teriparatide can increase calcium levels in the blood. It’s important to monitor calcium levels regularly, especially in patients with a history of hypercalcemia or other conditions that predispose them to high blood calcium levels.
• Orthostatic Hypotension: Some patients may experience dizziness or lightheadedness upon standing (orthostatic hypotension) when using teriparatide. Use caution when standing up from a sitting or lying position, especially at the beginning of treatment.
• Injection Site Reactions: Like with any injectable medication, teriparatide may cause injection site reactions such as pain, swelling, bruising, or redness. Rotate injection sites and notify your healthcare provider if you experience persistent or severe injection site reactions.
• Bone Density Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may perform regular bone density tests to monitor your response to treatment. Follow-up appointments are essential to assess your progress and adjust treatment if necessary.

Always adhere to your healthcare provider’s instructions and report any unusual symptoms or side effects promptly. They can provide personalized guidance and address any concerns you may have about using teriparatide injection safely and effectively.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding dietary instructions, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with teriparatide injection. However, maintaining a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is generally recommended for bone health. Adequate calcium intake supports bone density, and vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. Your healthcare provider may advise you to take calcium and vitamin D supplements if your dietary intake is insufficient.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of teriparatide injection, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you’re unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Teriparatide injection, like any medication, can cause side effects. Common side effects may include:

• Injection Site Reactions: Pain, redness, bruising, or swelling at the injection site are common.
• Nausea: Some people may experience nausea after taking teriparatide.
• Dizziness: Feeling dizzy or lightheaded, especially when standing up (orthostatic hypotension), may occur.
• Leg Cramps: Muscle cramps, particularly in the legs, have been reported by some individuals.
• Headache: Headaches may occur as a side effect of teriparatide injection.
• Hypercalcemia: Elevated calcium levels in the blood (hypercalcemia) are possible, especially in individuals predisposed to high blood calcium levels.
• Bone Pain: Some patients may experience bone pain or joint pain while taking teriparatide.
• Nausea: Nausea can be a side effect for some people.
• Vomiting: Vomiting is another possible side effect, though less common.
• Weakness: Some individuals may feel weak or fatigued while taking teriparatide.
• Increased Risk of Osteosarcoma: Long-term use of teriparatide has been associated with a potential increased risk of osteosarcoma (a type of bone cancer) in animal studies. However, the relevance of these findings to humans is uncertain.

It’s essential to report any side effects to your healthcare provider, especially if they are persistent, severe, or concerning. They can provide guidance on managing side effects or adjust your treatment if necessary. If you experience any serious side effects such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat, seek immediate medical attention.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Here’s what you should know about the storage and disposal of Teriparatide injection:

Storage:

• Follow the storage instructions provided by the manufacturer.
• Some formulations of teriparatide may require refrigeration, while others can be stored at room temperature.
• Keep the medication away from light and moisture.
• Do not freeze teriparatide injection.
• Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.

Disposal:

• Dispose of unused or expired teriparatide injection properly according to local regulations.
• Do not dispose of medications in household trash or wastewater.
• Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance on proper disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an overdose or emergency, such as accidentally injecting too much teriparatide, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center.
• Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, and increased calcium levels in the blood.

What other information should I know?

• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you are taking before starting teriparatide injection, as they may interact with it.
• Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring of bone density and response to treatment.
• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully for proper administration and dosing of teriparatide injection.
• Report any side effects or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Keep a record of your injections, including the date, time, and injection site, to help monitor your treatment.
• Do not share your teriparatide injection device with others, even if they have the same condition.
• If you have any questions or concerns about teriparatide injection, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about teriparatide injection, you can use it safely and effectively as prescribed by your healthcare provider.