Drug Trade Name: Forteo
Category: Parathyroid Hormone
Generic Name: teriparatide
Introduction and Quick Information:
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Forteo is an artificial form of parathyroid hormone used to increase bone strength and mineral density in order to minimize the risk of bone fractures. It is usually injected in thigh or stomach of the patients suffering from osteoporosis.
Parathyroid hormone is responsible for regulation of phosphate and calcium in the body. Lack of this hormone can cause osteoporosis.
Is It Approved By U.S. FDA?
Forteo was approved as a subcutaneous injection on 26th November 2002.
Usage and Benefits of Forteo:
Forteo primarily targets the following forms of osteoporosis-
- Osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.
- Hypogonadal or primary osteoporosis in men.
- Osteoporosis caused by prolonged use of glucocorticoid steroids.
Forteo brings about below-mentioned benefits-
- Increases bone mineral density
- Increases bone strength
- Regulates phosphate and calcium in body
- Inhibits bone resorption.
- Reduces spine fractures
- Minimizes the risk of bone fractures.
Forteo Side Effects:
Some of the side-effects of Forteo as given as follows:
- Fast heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Leg cramps
- Joint pain
- Nausea
- Headache
- Constipation
- Bone cancer
General Recommended Dosages of Forteo:
As Forteo is an artificial form of parathyroid hormone (PTH) prepared in order to maintain the level of this hormone, thus, it should be taken in an adequate amount required to maintain the normal level of hormone in the body. Your doctor will recommend the best dose according to your medical condition.
You should regularly visit your healthcare provider to get your PTH level checked and ask for dose adjustments accordingly.
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In Case I Miss the Dose?
You can always take medicine whenever you remember it or skip it altogether if it is already time for your next dose.
In Case I Take Overdose?
An overdose of Forteo increases your risk of bone fracture as it leads to continuous bone loss. Other less severe side-effects include leg cramps, joint pain, nausea, dizziness and many more. Seek immediate medical help in case of an overdose.
Drug Interactions of Forteo:
Following are the drugs that interact with Forteo:
- fluticasone and salmeterol (Advair Diskus)
- lisinopril (Lisinopril)
- prednisone (Prednisone)
- metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor)
- furosemide (Lasix)
- simvastatin (Simvastatin)
- clopidogrel bisulfate (Plavix)
- duloxetine hydrochloride (Cymbalta)
If you are using any medication, then you must inform your doctor before starting Forteo medication.
Lifestyle and Food Habits You Must Follow When on Forteo:
When you are using Forteo, you should bring some changes in your lifestyle for better results, like the cessation of smoking and drinking, which can decrease your bone mineral density. You should also indulge in weight-bearing exercises in order to strengthen your bones.
You should also consume a healthy and balanced diet, rich in calcium and vitamin D. You can also get these nutrients through various supplements available in the market.
Moreover, don’t forget to inform your healthcare provider if you are suffering from-
- Hyperparathyroidism
- Paget’s disease
- Kidney stones
- Bone cancer
- Teriparatide allergy
How Safe Is Forteo for Pregnant Women or Nursing Mothers?
Forteo is put in the U.S. FDA pregnancy category C, which means it should only be taken by a pregnant woman if the benefits outweigh risks.
For nursing mothers, it is advised not to take Forteo as it gets secreted in the breastmilk and can harm the infant.
Complications and Conditions Possible Due To Prolonged Use of Forteo:
Prolonged use of Forteo can increase its concentration in the body (Hyperparathyroidism) and cause continuous bone loss.
In children, prolonged use of Forteo can increase the risk of bone cancer.
Availability of Forteo:
Forteo is available as a cartridge containing a prefilled delivery device called injection pen. This medication can be bought from any of the authorized medical store and government hospitals on prescription only.