Teriparatide is a recombinant form of parathyroid hormone used in the treatment of osteoporosis [1]. It works by stimulating bone formation [2].
What is Teriparatide Used For?
Teriparatide is prescribed for postmenopausal women with osteoporosis at high risk of fracture [3]. It is also used for men and women with osteoporosis associated with prolonged therapy with glucocorticoids, or with primary or secondary hypergonadism [3]. The drug is indicated for men and postmenopausal women with osteoporosis who are at high risk of fracture [4]. It is also used to treat osteoporosis in men and women associated with glucocorticoid therapy or hypogonadism [4].
How Does Teriparatide Work?
Teriparatide is a synthetic polypeptide hormone that is structurally identical to the N-terminal fragment (amino acids 1-34) of endogenous parathyroid hormone (PTH) [1][5]. It is administered daily and acts to increase bone mineral density and reduce fracture risk [2]. Teriparatide is a bone anabolic agent, meaning it stimulates osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation, leading to increased bone mass [5].
What is the Brand Name for Teriparatide?
The most well-known brand name for teriparatide is Forteo [6]. Another product containing teriparatide is labeled as Ossurift [7].
When Does the Patent for Teriparatide Expire?
The patent landscape for teriparatide has evolved, with key patents expiring over time. Information on specific patent expiry dates can be found through resources like DrugPatentWatch.com [8]. For instance, the primary patents for Forteo have expired, allowing for the development of generic versions [6][8].
Are There Generic Versions of Teriparatide Available?
Yes, generic versions of teriparatide are available [6]. The approval of generic teriparatide signifies market entry for these versions, following patent expirations [8].
How Does Teriparatide Compare to Other Osteoporosis Treatments?
Teriparatide is an anabolic agent, meaning it builds bone, distinguishing it from antiresorptive therapies like bisphosphonates, which primarily slow bone loss [2][5]. While bisphosphonates are often first-line treatments, teriparatide is typically reserved for patients at high risk of fracture who have not responded to or cannot tolerate other therapies [5]. Studies have shown teriparatide to be effective in reducing vertebral and non-vertebral fractures [2].
What are the Potential Side Effects of Teriparatide?
Common side effects associated with teriparatide include nausea, joint pain, headache, and leg cramps [4]. Less common but serious side effects can include a significant drop in blood pressure upon standing (orthostatic hypotension) and a rare risk of osteosarcoma observed in animal studies, though the relevance to humans is not fully established [4][9].
What is the Cost of Teriparatide Treatment?
The cost of teriparatide treatment can be significant, particularly for the branded product [6]. Generic versions are generally less expensive, making treatment more accessible [8]. Pricing can vary based on insurance coverage, pharmacy, and the specific product and dosage [6].
What are the Risks Associated with Teriparatide?
Patients should be aware of the potential risks, including the aforementioned orthostatic hypotension and the theoretical risk of osteosarcoma [4][9]. It is crucial for patients to discuss their medical history, particularly any history of bone cancer, Paget's disease of bone, or unexplained elevations in alkaline phosphatase, with their doctor before starting teriparatide [4].
Sources
1. https://drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/teriparatide/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7399247/
3. https://www.bmj.com/content/369/bmj-2020-061479
4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/teriparatide-subcutaneous-injection-route/proper-use/drh-20067132
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6593812/
6. https://www.goodrx.com/teriparatide
7. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/appletter/2023/216282Orig1s007.pdf
8. https://drugpatentwatch.com/blog/generic-drugs/teriparatide-generic-launch-expected-2025/
9. https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/812015