Forteo is the brand name for teriparatide, that is a form of parathyroid hormone, used to treat advanced osteoporosis. Teriparitide works by forming new bone, increasing bone mineral density and increasing bone strength, thereby lessening the chances of getting bone fractures. Forteo was approved by the FDA in November of 2002.

Clinical tests of teriparatide on patients with unhealed bone fractures were reported in April 2009. Results were remarkable, with 93% of patients experiencing accelerated bone fracture healing and reduced pain. Researchers plan to begin full time trials in 2009.Telegraph: Bone boosting drug is major breakthrough for the elderly suffering from fractures (April 14, 2009)

Preliminary clinical tests of daily injections of teriparatide on patients with unhealed bone fractures significantly reduced the time elderly patients needed to heal broken bones and simultaneously sharply reducing the pain that accompanies weakened bones. Full time trials of the drug are being undertaken to see if the early results can be repeated.Telegraph: Bone boosting drug is major breakthrough for the elderly suffering from fractures (April 14, 2009)

According to a report at the Orthopaedic Research Society conference, 93% of 145 patients with unhealed bone fractures, half with fractures older than 6 months, showed significant healing and pain control after only 8-12 weeks.Telegraph: Bone boosting drug is major breakthrough for the elderly suffering from fractures (April 14, 2009)

Scientists believe that teriparatide works by boosting the amount of stem cells in the bones.Telegraph: Bone boosting drug is major breakthrough for the elderly suffering from fractures (April 14, 2009)

1. Abdominal pain
2. Headache
3. Diarrhea
4. Leg cramps
5. Confusion
6. Constipation
7. Depression
8. Dry mouth
9. Loss of appetite
10. Nausea
11. Frequent urination
12. Weight loss
13. Vomiting
14. Fatigue

Patient directions come with the Forteo injections. Be sure to use Forteo exactly as your doctor prescribed. If you see solid particles inside the liquid or it has passed the expiration date discontinue use and consult your doctor. Dosing will be different depending on the patient. Be sure not to inject Forteo into a vein or muscle.

Teriparatide causes osteosarcoma (cancer of the bones) in laboratory rats. It is possible that teriparatide may also increase the chances that humans will develop this rare but serious cancer. Because of this risk, teriparatide should not be used to prevent osteoporosis, to treat mild osteoporosis, or by people who can take other medications for osteoporosis. You should not use teriparatide unless you have osteoporosis and at least one of the following conditions is met: you have already had at least one bone fracture; your doctor has determined that you are at high risk of fractures; or you cannot take or do not respond to other medications for osteoporosis. Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had a bone disease such as Paget's disease, bone cancer or a cancer that has spread to the bone, or radiation therapy of the bones. Your doctor will order certain tests to see if teriparatide is right for you. — MedlinePlus

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before taking Forteo (Teriparatide).