Teriparatide acetate

Teriparatide acetate is a biopharmaceutical drug used in the treatment of osteoporosis. It is a synthetic form of parathyroid hormone, specifically the 1-34 fragment of the hormone, which is biologically active.

Pharmacology

Teriparatide acetate works by stimulating the formation of new bone, increasing bone mineral density and bone strength. It does this by activating osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation. This is in contrast to most other osteoporosis drugs, which work by inhibiting the breakdown of bone.

Clinical use

Teriparatide acetate is used in the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men at high risk for fracture. It is also used in the treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in men and women at high risk for fracture.

Side effects

Common side effects of teriparatide acetate include nausea, pain in the limbs, and dizziness. Rare but serious side effects include increased calcium in the blood and urine, and an increased risk of osteosarcoma.

History

Teriparatide acetate was approved for medical use in the United States in 2002. It is marketed under the brand name Forteo by Eli Lilly and Company.

See also

• Osteoporosis
• Parathyroid hormone
• Biopharmaceutical