Teriparatide: Building Stronger Bones for High-Risk Steroid Users
Published: Sep 28, 2024
Medically reviewed by Jerome Albert Ecker | MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Duke University - Durham, NC on September 28th, 2024.
For some people at very high risk of fractures from steroid use, a medication called teriparatide offers a unique approach. Unlike other osteoporosis drugs that slow bone loss, teriparatide actually stimulates new bone growth.
Contents
How It Works
Teriparatide is a synthetic form of parathyroid hormone. When given in small, daily doses, it activates bone-building cells called osteoblasts. This leads to increased bone density and improved bone structure. Think of it as giving your skeleton's construction crew a powerful energy boost.
Who Might Benefit?
Doctors typically reserve teriparatide for people at the highest risk of fractures from steroid use. This includes those with very low bone density, a history of fractures, or who haven't responded well to other treatments. It's particularly useful for postmenopausal women and men over 50 who need long-term steroid therapy.
Treatment Details
Teriparatide is given as a daily injection under the skin, usually for up to two years. After treatment, most people switch to a bisphosphonate to maintain the gains in bone density. While effective, teriparatide is more expensive than other options and requires daily injections, which may not be suitable for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common ones include nausea, dizziness, and leg cramps.
It's usually not recommended due to a potential increased risk of bone cancer.
Significant improvements in bone density are often seen within 6-12 months.
Key Takeaways
For those at highest risk, teriparatide offers a unique way to rebuild bone and reduce fracture risk.
Curious if teriparatide might be right for your bone health? Ask Doctronic about your options.Related Articles
References
Saag KG, et al. Teriparatide or alendronate in glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis. N Engl J Med 2007; 357:2028.
Langdahl BL, et al. Teriparatide versus alendronate for treating glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis: an analysis by gender and menopausal status. Osteoporos Int 2009; 20:2095.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.