Teriparatide: how to take it safely
Forsteo
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats severe osteoporosis by building new bone.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Inject under the skin of the thigh or tummy with the pen, as your health worker showed you. Change the spot each time.
- Keep the pen in the fridge. Sit or lie down for the first injections, as you may feel dizzy.
When to take it
Inject once a day, at about the same time.
Take it with
Not applicable.
What to avoid
- Using it for more than 2 years in total unless your doctor says so.
- Tell your doctor if you have had bone cancer, Paget's disease or high calcium.
- Standing up quickly.
Possible side effects
Dizziness, leg cramps, nausea, pain at the injection site.
Get help if
Severe or lasting nausea and vomiting, constipation, weakness or tiredness, or a fast heartbeat: see a doctor.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.