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teriparatide - injection, Forteo

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GENERIC NAME: TERIPARATIDE - INJECTION (TER-i-PAR-a-tide)

BRAND NAME(S): Forteo

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: Teriparatide has been shown to increase bone tumors (osteosarcoma) in rats. However, this occurred at doses higher than the usual human dose. It is unknown if this medication can cause bone tumors in humans. Therefore, this medication should not be used by people with increased risk for bone tumors (including people with Paget's disease of bone or people who had radiation treatment involving the bones).

USES: Teriparatide is used to treat bone loss (osteoporosis) in people who have a high risk of getting fractures. It is similar to a natural hormone in your body (parathyroid hormone). It works by increasing bone mass and strength. This effect helps to decrease the risk of getting a fracture.This medication is not recommended for use in children or young adults whose bones are still growing.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using teriparatide and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.A health care professional should instruct you on the proper usage of this medication. Also, learn all preparation and usage instructions in the user manual. If any of the information is unclear, consult your doctor or pharmacist.Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.Inject this medication under the skin as directed by your doctor, usually once daily into the thigh or abdomen. Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin.Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist for more details.Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day.

SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness or fast heartbeat may occur within 4 hours after using this medication. These symptoms may persist for a few minutes to a few hours. This effect should go away after several doses as your body adjusts to the medication. It is best to lie or sit down if these symptoms occur. Muscle cramps/spasms or pain/swelling/bruising at the injection site may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: fainting, constipation, unusual tiredness, mental/mood changes (such as confusion).A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.