Why is this medication prescribed?

Tymlos is a prescription medication primarily used to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women who are at high risk of fractures. Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones, which can lead to an increased risk of fractures, especially in the spine and hips.

The active ingredient in Tymlos is abaloparatide, which works by increasing bone mass and reducing the risk of fractures. It is usually prescribed to individuals who have a history of osteoporotic fractures or who have multiple risk factors for fractures.

How should this medicine be used?

Tymlos is typically administered as a daily subcutaneous injection, meaning it is injected under the skin. The recommended dosage is 80 micrograms once daily. It’s important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the administration of Tymlos.

Here are some general guidelines for using Tymlos:

• Injection Site: Tymlos is injected under the skin (subcutaneously) of the thigh or abdomen. You should rotate injection sites to minimize the risk of irritation or reactions.
• Timing: It’s usually administered at approximately the same time each day.
• Preparation: Before injecting, ensure that you’ve properly prepared the medication according to the instructions provided with the medication.
• Administration: Use a clean, sterile needle and syringe for each injection. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider for the proper technique for administering the injection.
• Storage: Store Tymlos in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Allow it to reach room temperature before administering the injection. Once opened, it can be stored at room temperature for up to 30 days.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may monitor your response to Tymlos through bone density tests and other assessments to ensure it’s effectively managing your osteoporosis.
• Follow-up: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and discuss any concerns or side effects you may be experiencing.

It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions precisely when using Tymlos to ensure optimal effectiveness and minimize the risk of side effects. If you have any questions or concerns about using Tymlos, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

Tymlos (abaloparatide) is primarily used for the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women who are at high risk of fractures. However, it’s important to note that Tymlos is not indicated for all individuals with osteoporosis, and its use may not be appropriate for everyone. As for other uses of Tymlos, it is generally not prescribed for conditions other than osteoporosis.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for using Tymlos, here are some important points to consider:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Tymlos is not recommended for use during pregnancy, as it may harm the unborn baby. It is also not known whether Tymlos passes into breast milk, so it’s essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.
• Bone Cancer Risk: Tymlos should not be used in patients at increased risk of osteosarcoma (a type of bone cancer). This includes patients with Paget’s disease of bone, pediatric and young adult patients with open epiphyses, patients with a history of prior external beam or implant radiation therapy involving the skeleton, and patients with bone metastases or a history of skeletal malignancies.
• Hypercalcemia: Tymlos can cause increases in blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia), which can lead to various symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, confusion, and weakness. Patients with pre-existing hypercalcemia or disorders associated with hypercalcemia should be monitored closely while using Tymlos.
• Orthostatic Hypotension: Tymlos may cause orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing), particularly during the early weeks of treatment. Patients should be advised to sit or lie down if they experience dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Injection Site Reactions:Injection site reactions, such as redness, swelling, or itching, may occur with Tymlos. Patients should be instructed on proper injection techniques and how to manage these reactions if they occur.
• Bone Health Monitoring: Patients receiving Tymlos should undergo periodic monitoring of bone density and other markers of bone health to assess treatment response and potential adverse effects.
• Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting Tymlos, as certain medications may interact with Tymlos and affect its efficacy or safety.

It’s crucial to discuss any concerns or questions you may have about using Tymlos with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and individual circumstances.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Tymlos. However, maintaining a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is generally recommended for bone health. Your healthcare provider may advise you on dietary adjustments based on your individual needs and medical condition.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Tymlos, take it as soon as you remember on the same day. However, if it’s already close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule the next day. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Tymlos (abaloparatide) may cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects associated with Tymlos include:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Palpitations (rapid or irregular heartbeat)
• Orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing)
• Hypercalcemia (elevated calcium levels in the blood)
• Injection site reactions (such as redness, swelling, or itching)
• Muscle cramps or spasms
• Leg pain

Less commonly, Tymlos may also cause more serious side effects, including:

• Osteosarcoma (a type of bone cancer): Though rare, cases of osteosarcoma have been reported in clinical studies in animals. Due to this risk, Tymlos is not recommended for individuals at increased risk of osteosarcoma.
• Hypersensitivity reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to Tymlos, which could manifest as rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of a severe allergic reaction.
• Hypercalciuria: Tymlos may increase the amount of calcium excreted in the urine, which could lead to hypercalciuria (elevated calcium levels in the urine). This could potentially result in kidney stones or other renal complications.
• Transient hypercalcemia: Tymlos can cause transient increases in blood calcium levels, particularly during the initial treatment period. This may lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, weakness, confusion, or muscle aches.

It’s essential to report any side effects or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly. They can help determine whether any side effects you’re experiencing are related to Tymlos and provide guidance on managing them effectively. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

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

Storage and disposal of Tymlos:

• Storage: Tymlos should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze the medication. Keep Tymlos in its original carton to protect it from light. Once opened, the Tymlos pen can be stored at room temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C) for up to 30 days. Do not store Tymlos above 77°F (25°C).
• Disposal: Dispose of Tymlos pens properly after use. Do not throw them in the household trash. You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about proper disposal methods in your area. They may provide guidance on how to safely dispose of used needles and pens, such as through a sharps disposal container or a community needle disposal program.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or suspected overdose of Tymlos, contact emergency medical services (911 in the United States) or your local poison control center immediately. Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, weakness, confusion, and muscle aches. It’s important to seek medical attention promptly if you suspect an overdose of Tymlos.

What other information should I know?

• Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and follow-up while using Tymlos.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Tymlos.
• Do not share your Tymlos pen with others, even if they have the same condition, as it may pose health risks.
• Do not use Tymlos if the packaging appears damaged or if the medication has expired.
• Follow proper injection techniques and rotate injection sites as instructed by your healthcare provider to minimize injection site reactions.
• Keep Tymlos out of reach of children and pets.
• If you have any questions or concerns about Tymlos or its use, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

Remember to always follow the advice of your healthcare provider and read the medication guide provided with Tymlos for complete information on its use, storage, and disposal.