Brand names: Forteo™
Chemical formula:
Teriparatide Solution for injection
What is this medicine?
TERIPARATIDE (terr ih PAR a tyd) increases bone mass and strength. It helps make healthy bone and to slow bone loss. This medicine is used to prevent bone fractures.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•bone disease other than osteoporosis
•heart, kidney or liver disease
•history of cancer in the bone
•kidney stone
•Paget's disease
•parathyroid disease
•receiving radiation therapy
•an unusual or allergic reaction to teriparatide, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine comes in an injection pen device. This pen injects the medicine under your skin. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You will be taught how to use this medicine. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Do not use this medicine if it has solid particles in it, or if it is cloudy or colored. It should be clear and colorless.
Be sure that you are using your pen device correctly. A patient information sheet for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.
A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What may interact with this medicine?
•digoxin
•other medicines to strengthen bone
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Your doctor may order blood tests and other tests to see how you are doing.
You should make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D while you are taking this medicine, unless your doctor tells you not to. Discuss the foods you eat and the vitamins you take with your health care professional.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
•chronic constipation
•high blood pressure
•irregular heartbeat, chest pain
•nausea, vomiting
•unusually weak or tired
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•bone pain
•cough, runny nose
•headache
•leg cramps
•muscle spasms in the back or legs
•pain, redness, irritation or swelling at the injection site
•stomach upset
•trouble sleeping
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store in a refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees C (36 and 46 degrees F). Do not freeze. Recap the pen injector when not in use to protect it from light and damage. Use quickly after taking out of the refrigerator and return to refrigerator right after using. Throw away any unused medicine 28 days after the first injection from the device. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the pen and pen packaging.
Last updated: 7/1/2002
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
