How does teriparatide (Forteo) work?
Teriparatide (Forteo), is a synthetic form of parathyroid hormone - a hormone produced naturally by the body which helps maintain blood levels of calcium within a very tight range; which in turn controls calcium levels within bone - determining how strong and dense the bones are.
As an osteoporosis medication, teriparatide is unique in that it stimulates bone formation. It may be used by postmenopausal women or men and is given as a daily injection. Evidence suggests it has more of an effect on building bone density and reducing fracture risk in the spine compared to other areas. Forteo is expensive, so is usually reserved for people with severe osteoporosis.
Bonsity (teriparatide) is a parathyroid hormone analog (PTH 1-34) that was approved in October 2019 and represents a cost-effective, therapeutically equivalent option to Forteo. It may be used to treat the following people at high risk of fracture:
- postmenopausal women with osteoporosis
- men with primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis
- osteoporosis associated with long-term glucocorticoid therapy.
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What's the difference between Prolia and Reclast?
Prolia (denosumab) and Reclast (zoledronic acid) are injections that can be used to treat or prevent osteoporosis. But they each work differently because Prolia is a monoclonal antibody (it may also be called a miscellaneous bone resorption agent) and Reclast is a bisphosphonate which means they have different side effects, other uses, tolerability, and effectiveness profiles. Both are prescription medicines. One of the main problems with Prolia is safely stopping it. Continue reading
How do you give a Prolia injection?
Prolia is a prescription medicine injected under the skin (called a subcutaneous injection) and is given once every 6 months. You do not give Prolia to yourself. You will receive your Prolia injection from your healthcare provider at a their office or clinic. Continue reading
Xgeva vs Prolia. How do they compare?
Xgeva and Prolia are both brand names for the generic drug denosumab. Both are injectable preparations, both are made by Amgen, and both have similar side effects; but they differ in their indications, the way they are given, and their dosage. Continue reading
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