Description
Forteo (teriparatide) is a recombinant form of parathyroid hormone (PTH 1-34) indicated for the treatment of osteoporosis in adults at high risk for fracture. It stimulates new bone formation by activating osteoblasts, increasing bone mineral density and reducing the incidence of vertebral and non-vertebral fractures. Forteo is commonly prescribed for postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, men with primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis, and patients with osteoporosis associated with long-term systemic glucocorticoid therapy. It is administered as a once-daily subcutaneous injection.
Directions
Forteo should be administered by subcutaneous injection into the thigh or abdominal wall once daily at a dose of 20 micrograms. Patients should be instructed in proper injection technique and advised to take the injection at the same time each day. The treatment duration should not exceed 24 months over a patient’s lifetime. Forteo should be stored in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C and discarded 28 days after first use, even if the pen is not empty.
Ingredients
Each dose of Forteo contains:
- Teriparatide (rDNA origin) 20 micrograms per 80 microliter dose
- Other ingredients: glacial acetic acid, sodium acetate (anhydrous), mannitol, metacresol, and water for injection
Contraindications
Forteo is contraindicated in patients with:
- Hypersensitivity to teriparatide or any component of the formulation
- Hypercalcemia or metabolic bone diseases other than osteoporosis
- A history of skeletal malignancies or bone metastases
- Paget’s disease of bone
- Unexplained elevations of alkaline phosphatase
- Prior external beam or implant radiation therapy involving the skeleton
Cautions
Forteo should be used with caution in patients with a history of urolithiasis due to the potential for transient hypercalciuria. Baseline and periodic monitoring of serum calcium, uric acid, and urinary calcium may be warranted. The product has been associated with an increased incidence of osteosarcoma in animal studies, although this has not been confirmed in humans. Forteo is not recommended for use in pediatric patients or young adults with open epiphyses.
Side Effects
Common and potential side effects include:
- Dizziness or orthostatic hypotension shortly after injection
- Arthralgia or muscle cramps
- Injection site reactions such as pain, redness, or swelling
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 6662