Can Tymlos cause bone cancer?

Some animal studies have found that Tymlos is associated with an increase in the risk of osteosarcoma (a type of cancerous bone tumor). It is not known if this increased risk translates to humans; however, authorities have warned that Tymlos should not be given to people already at increased risk of osteosarcoma, including those with Paget's disease of the bone, pre-existing bone malignancies, prior radiation therapy, or hereditary disorders that increase their risk of osteosarcoma.

Tymlos (abaloparatide), approved in April 2017, is a man-made version of a protein related to human parathyroid hormone. It may be considered in postmenopausal women who have tried and not responded to, or been intolerant of, other medications for osteoporosis. It may also be used to increase bone density in men with osteoporosis at high risk for fracture, or in people unresponsive to or intolerant of other available osteoporosis treatment. Tymlos significantly reduces the risk of vertebral and nonvertebral fractures.

Tymlos is given by self-injection just under the skin and is available as single-use prefilled pens.