Teriparatide
Teriparatide (parathyroid hormone 1-34)
Also known as: Forteo
An FDA-approved bone-building peptide, a fragment of parathyroid hormone used for severe osteoporosis.
Overview
Teriparatide is the active 1-34 fragment of parathyroid hormone, approved as Forteo for osteoporosis at high fracture risk. Unlike most osteoporosis drugs that slow bone loss, teriparatide actively builds new bone when given as a once-daily injection. It is a well-established, approved peptide medicine.
Mechanism of action
Intermittent activation of PTH receptors stimulates bone-forming osteoblasts, increasing bone density and strength.
Key studies & citations
- Human2001
Effect of parathyroid hormone (1-34) on fractures and bone mineral density in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis
1,637 women: new vertebral fractures 5% versus 14% on placebo (relative risk 0.35); nonvertebral fractures roughly halved.
New England Journal of Medicine - Human2018
Effects of teriparatide and risedronate on new fractures in post-menopausal women with severe osteoporosis (VERO)
Head-to-head: new vertebral and clinical fractures significantly lower with teriparatide than with risedronate.
The Lancet
Frequently asked questions
How is teriparatide different from typical osteoporosis drugs?
Most osteoporosis drugs slow bone breakdown; teriparatide actively builds new bone, which is why it is reserved for high-risk patients.