FORTEO
(teriparatide [rDNA origin]) Injection for Subcutaneous use
WARNING
POTENTIAL RISK OF OSTEOSARCOMA
In male and female rats, teriparatide caused an increase in the incidence of osteosarcoma (a malignant bone tumor) that was dependent on dose and treatment duration. The effect was observed at systemic exposures to teriparatide ranging from 3 to 60 times the exposure in humans given a 20-mcg dose. Because of the uncertain relevance of the rat osteosarcoma finding to humans, prescribe FORTEO® only for patients for whom the potential benefits are considered to outweigh the potential risk. FORTEO should not be prescribed for patients who are at increased baseline risk for osteosarcoma (including those with Paget's disease of bone or unexplained elevations of alkaline phosphatase, pediatric and young adult patients with open epiphyses, or prior external beam or implant radiation therapy involving the skeleton) [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, ADVERSE REACTIONS, and Nonclinical Toxicology].
FORTEO (teriparatide [rDNA origin] injection) contains recombinant human parathyroid hormone (1-34), and is also called rhPTH (1-34). It has an identical sequence to the 34 N-terminal amino acids (the biologically active region) of the 84-amino acid human parathyroid hormone.
Teriparatide has a molecular weight of 4117.8 daltons and its amino acid sequence is shown below:
![FORTEO (teriparatide [rDNA origin]) amino acid sequence Illustration](http://images.rxlist.com/images/rxlist/forteo1.gif) |
Teriparatide (rDNA origin) is manufactured using a strain of Escherichia coli modified by recombinant DNA technology. FORTEO is supplied as a sterile, colorless, clear, isotonic solution in a glass cartridge which is pre-assembled into a disposable delivery device (pen) for subcutaneous injection. Each prefilled delivery device is filled with either 3.3 mL to deliver 3 mL or 2.7 mL to deliver 2.4 mL. Each mL contains 250 mcg teriparatide (corrected for acetate, chloride, and water content), 0.41 mg glacial acetic acid, 0.1 mg sodium acetate (anhydrous), 45.4 mg mannitol, 3 mg Metacresol, and Water for Injection. In addition, hydrochloric acid solution 10% and/or sodium hydroxide solution 10% may have been added to adjust the product to pH 4.
Each cartridge, pre-assembled into a delivery device, delivers 20 mcg of teriparatide per dose each day for up to 28 days.
Last updated on RxList: 8/10/2009
FORTEO is indicated for the treatment of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis at high risk for fracture, defined as a history of osteoporotic fracture, multiple risk factors for fracture, or patients who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy. In postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, FORTEO reduces the risk of vertebral and nonvertebral fractures see Clinical Studies].
FORTEO is indicated to increase bone mass in men with primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis at high risk for fracture, defined as a history of osteoporotic fracture, multiple risk factors for fracture, or patients who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy [see Clinical Studies].
FORTEO is indicated for the treatment of men and women with osteoporosis associated with sustained systemic glucocorticoid therapy (daily dosage equivalent to 5 mg or greater of prednisone) at high risk for fracture, defined as a history of osteoporotic fracture, multiple risk factors for fracture, or patients who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy [see Clinical Studies].
The recommended dose is 20 mcg subcutaneously once a day.
The recommended dose is 20 mcg subcutaneously once a day.
The recommended dose is 20 mcg subcutaneously once a day.
The safety and efficacy of FORTEO have not been evaluated beyond 2 years of treatment. Consequently, use of the drug for more than 2 years during a patient's lifetime is not recommended.
Multi-dose prefilled delivery device (pen) for subcutaneous injection containing 28 daily doses of 20 mcg.
The FORTEO delivery device (pen) is available in the following package sizes:
3 mL prefilled delivery device NDC 0002-8971-01 (MS8971).
2.4 mL prefilled delivery device NDC 0002-8400-01 (MS8400).
Manufactured by Lilly France - F-67640 Fegersheim, France for Eli Lilly and Company - Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA. www.forteo.com.
Last updated on RxList: 8/10/2009
Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical studies of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical studies of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
The safety of FORTEO in the treatment of osteoporosis in men and postmenopausal women was assessed in two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of 1382 patients (21% men, 79% women) aged 28 to 86 years (mean 67 years). The median durations of the trials were 11 months for men and 19 months for women, with 691 patients exposed to FORTEO and 691 patients to placebo. All patients received 1000 mg of calcium plus at least 400 IU of vitamin D supplementation per day.
The incidence of all cause mortality was 1% in the FORTEO group and 1% in the placebo group. The incidence of serious adverse events was 16% in FORTEO patients and 19% in placebo patients. Early discontinuation due to adverse events occurred in 7% of FORTEO patients and 6% of placebo patients.
Table 1 lists adverse events from the two principal osteoporosis trials in men and postmenopausal women that occurred in ≥ 2% of FORTEO-treated and more frequently than placebo-treated patients.
Table 1 : Percentage of Patients with Adverse Events Reported
by at Least 2% of FORTEO-Treated Patients and in More FORTEO-Treated Patients
than Placebo-Treated Patients from the Two Principal Osteoporosis Trials in
Women and Men Adverse Events are Shown Without Attribution of Causality
| Event Classification | FORTEO N=691 (%) |
Placebo N=691 (%) |
| Body as a Whole | ||
| Pain | 21.3 | 20.5 |
| Headache | 7.5 | 7.4 |
| Asthenia | 8.7 | 6.8 |
| Neck pain | 3.0 | 2.7 |
| Cardiovascular | ||
| Hypertension | 7.1 | 6.8 |
| Angina pectoris | 2.5 | 1.6 |
| Syncope | 2.6 | 1.4 |
| Digestive System | ||
| Nausea | 8.5 | 6.7 |
| Constipation | 5.4 | 4.5 |
| Diarrhea | 5.1 | 4.6 |
| Dyspepsia | 5.2 | 4.1 |
| Vomiting | 3.0 | 2.3 |
| Gastrointestinal disorder | 2.3 | 2.0 |
| Tooth disorder | 2.0 | 1.3 |
| Musculoskeletal | ||
| Arthralgia | 10.1 | 8.4 |
| Leg cramps | 2.6 | 1.3 |
| Nervous System | ||
| Dizziness | 8.0 | 5.4 |
| Depression | 4.1 | 2.7 |
| Insomnia | 4.3 | 3.6 |
| Vertigo | 3.8 | 2.7 |
| Respiratory System | ||
| Rhinitis | 9.6 | 8.8 |
| Cough increased | 6.4 | 5.5 |
| Pharyngitis | 5.5 | 4.8 |
| Dyspnea | 3.6 | 2.6 |
| Pneumonia | 3.9 | 3.3 |
| Skin and Appendages | ||
| Rash | 4.9 | 4.5 |
| Sweating | 2.2 | 1.7 |
Immunogenicity In the clinical trial, antibodies that cross-reacted with teriparatide were detected in 3% of women (15/541) receiving FORTEO. Generally, antibodies were first detected following 12 months of treatment and diminished after withdrawal of therapy. There was no evidence of hypersensitivity reactions or allergic reactions among these patients. Antibody formation did not appear to have effects on serum calcium, or on bone mineral density (BMD) response.
Serum Calcium FORTEO transiently increased serum calcium, with the maximal effect observed at approximately 4 to 6 hours post-dose. Serum calcium measured at least 16 hours post-dose was not different from pretreatment levels. In clinical trials, the frequency of at least 1 episode of transient hypercalcemia in the 4 to 6 hours after FORTEO administration was increased from 2% of women and none of the men treated with placebo to 11% of women and 6% of men treated with FORTEO. The number of patients treated with FORTEO whose transient hypercalcemia was verified on consecutive measurements was 3% of women and 1% of men.
Urinary Calcium FORTEO increased urinary calcium excretion, but the frequency of hypercalciuria in clinical trials was similar for patients treated with FORTEO and placebo [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Serum Uric Acid FORTEO increased serum uric acid concentrations. In clinical trials, 3% of FORTEO patients had serum uric acid concentrations above the upper limit of normal compared with 1% of placebo patients. However, the hyperuricemia did not result in an increase in gout, arthralgia, or urolithiasis.
Renal Function No clinically important adverse renal effects were observed in clinical studies. Assessments included creatinine clearance; measurements of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, and electrolytes in serum; urine specific gravity and pH; and examination of urine sediment.
The safety of FORTEO in the treatment of men and women with glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis was assessed in a randomized, double-blind, active-controlled trial of 428 patients (19% men, 81% women) aged 22 to 89 years (mean 57 years) treated with ≥ 5mg per day prednisone or equivalent for a minimum of 3 months. The duration of the trial was 18 months with 214 patients exposed to FORTEO and 214 patients exposed to oral daily bisphosphonate (active control). All patients received 1000 mg of calcium plus 800 IU of vitamin D supplementation per day.
The incidence of all cause mortality was 4% in the FORTEO group and 6% in the active control group. The incidence of serious adverse events was 21% in FORTEO patients and 18% in active control patients, and included pneumonia (3% FORTEO, 1% active control). Early discontinuation because of adverse events occurred in 15% of FORTEO patients and 12% of active control patients, and included dizziness (2% FORTEO, 0% active control).
Adverse events reported at a higher incidence in the FORTEO group and with at least a 2% difference in FORTEO-treated patients compared with active control-treated patients were: nausea (14%, 7%), gastritis (7%, 3%), pneumonia (6%, 3%), dyspnea 6%, 3%), insomnia (5%, 1%), anxiety (4%, 1%), and herpes zoster (3%, 1%), respectively.
The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of FORTEO. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
Digoxin A single FORTEO dose did not alter the effect of digoxin on the systolic time interval (from electrocardiographic Q-wave onset to aortic valve closure, a measure of digoxin's calcium-mediated cardiac effect). However, because FORTEO may transiently increase serum calcium, FORTEO should be used with caution in patients taking digoxin [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
The coadministration of hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg with teriparatide did not affect the serum calcium response to teriparatide 40 mcg. The effect of coadministration of a higher dose of hydrochlorothiazide with teriparatide on serum calcium levels has not been studied [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Coadministration of intravenous furosemide (20 to 100 mg) with teriparatide 40 mcg in healthy people and patients with mild, moderate, or severe renal impairment (CrCl 13 to 72 mL/min) resulted in small increases in the serum calcium (2%) and 24-hour urine calcium (37%) responses to teriparatide that did not appear to be clinically important [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Last updated on RxList: 8/10/2009
In male and female rats, teriparatide caused an increase in the incidence of osteosarcoma (a malignant bone tumor) that was dependent on dose and treatment duration [see BOXED WARNING and Nonclinical Toxicology)]. FORTEO should not be prescribed for patients at increased baseline risk of osteosarcoma.
These include:
Patients should be encouraged to enroll in the voluntary FORTEO Patient Registry, which is designed to collect information about any potential risk of osteosarcoma in patients who have taken FORTEO. Enrollment information can be obtained by calling 165 866-382-6813, or by visiting www.forteoregistry.rti.org
The safety and efficacy of FORTEO have not been evaluated beyond 2 years of treatment. Consequently, use of the drug for more than 2 years during a patients' lifetime is not recommended.
Patients with bone metastases or a history of skeletal malignancies should not be treated with FORTEO.
Patients with metabolic bone diseases other than osteoporosis should not be treated with FORTEO.
FORTEO has not been studied in patients with pre-existing hypercalcemia. These patients should not be treated with FORTEO because of the possibility of exacerbating hypercalcemia. Patients known to have an underlying hypercalcemic disorder, such as primary hyperparathyroidism, should not be treated with FORTEO.
In clinical trials, the frequency of urolithiasis was similar in patients treated with FORTEO and placebo. However, FORTEO has not been studied in patients with active urolithiasis. If active urolithiasis or pre-existing hypercalciuria are suspected, measurement of urinary calcium excretion should be considered. FORTEO should be used with caution in patients with active or recent urolithiasis because of the potential to exacerbate this condition.
FORTEO should be administered initially under circumstances in which the patient can sit or lie down if symptoms of orthostatic hypotension occur. In short-term clinical pharmacology studies with teriparatide, transient episodes of symptomatic orthostatic hypotension were observed in 5% of patients. Typically, an event began within 4 hours of dosing and spontaneously resolved within a few minutes to a few hours. When transient orthostatic hypotension occurred, it happened within the first several doses, it was relieved by placing the person in a reclining position, and it did not preclude continued treatment.
Hypercalcemia may predispose patients to digitalis toxicity. Because FORTEO transiently increases serum calcium, patients receiving digoxin should use FORTEO with caution [see DRUG INTERACTIONS and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
See Medication Guide.
Patients should be made aware that in rats, teriparatide caused an increase in the incidence of osteosarcoma (a malignant bone tumor) that was dependent on dose and treatment duration. Patients should be encouraged to enroll in the voluntary FORTEO Patient Registry, which is designed to collect information about any potential risk of osteosarcoma in patients who have taken FORTEO. Enrollment information can be obtained by calling 1-866-382-6813, or by visiting www.forteoregistry.rti.org.
FORTEO should be administered initially under circumstances where the patient can immediately sit or lie down if symptoms occur. Patients should be instructed that if they feel lightheaded or have palpitations after the injection, they should sit or lie down until the symptoms resolve. If symptoms persist or worsen, patients should be instructed to consult a physician before continuing treatment [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Although symptomatic hypercalcemia was not observed in clinical trials, physicians should instruct patients taking FORTEO to contact a health care provider if they develop persistent symptoms of hypercalcemia (e.g., nausea, vomiting, constipation, lethargy, muscle weakness).
Patients should be informed regarding the roles of supplemental calcium and/or vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise, and modification of certain behavioral factors such as cigarette smoking and/or alcohol consumption.
Patients and caregivers who administer FORTEO should be instructed on how to properly use the delivery device (refer to User Manual), properly dispose of needles, and be advised not to share their delivery device with other patients. The contents of the delivery device should NOT be transferred to a syringe.
Each FORTEO delivery device can be used for up to 28 days including the first injection from the delivery device. After the 28-day use period, discard the FORTEO delivery device, even if it still contains some unused solution.
Patients should read the Medication Guide and delivery device (pen) User Manual before starting therapy with FORTEO and re-read them each time the prescription is renewed. Patients need to understand and follow the instructions in the FORTEO delivery device User Manual. Failure to do so may result in inaccurate dosing.
Carcinogenesis - Two carcinogenicity bioassays were conducted in Fischer 344 rats. In the first study, male and female rats were given daily subcutaneous teriparatide injections of 5, 30, or 75 mcg/kg/day for 24 months from 2 months of age. These doses resulted in systemic exposures that were, respectively, 3, 20, and 60 times higher than the systemic exposure observed in humans following a subcutaneous dose of 20 mcg (based on AUC comparison). Teriparatide treatment resulted in a marked dose-related increase in the incidence of osteosarcoma, a rare malignant bone tumor, in both male and female rats. Osteosarcomas were observed at all doses and the incidence reached 40% to 50% in the high-dose groups. Teriparatide also caused a dose-related increase in osteoblastoma and osteoma in both sexes. No osteosarcomas, osteoblastomas or osteomas were observed in untreated control rats. The bone tumors in rats occurred in association with a large increase in bone mass and focal osteoblast hyperplasia.
The second 2-year study was carried out in order to determine the effect of treatment duration and animal age on the development of bone tumors. Female rats were treated for different periods between 2 and 26 months of age with subcutaneous doses of 5 and 30 mcg/kg (equivalent to 3 and 20 times the human exposure at the 20-mcg dose, based on AUC comparison). The study showed that the occurrence of osteosarcoma, osteoblastoma and osteoma was dependent upon dose and duration of exposure. Bone tumors were observed when immature 2-month old rats were treated with 30 mcg/kg/day for 24 months or with 5 or 30 mcg/kg/day for 6 months. Bone tumors were also observed when mature 6-month old rats were treated with 30 mcg/kg/day for 6 or 20 months. Tumors were not detected when mature 6-month old rats were treated with 5 mcg/kg/day for 6 or 20 months. The results did not demonstrate a difference in susceptibility to bone tumor formation, associated with teriparatide treatment, between mature and immature rats.
The relevance of these animal findings to humans is uncertain.
Mutagenesis Teriparatide was not genotoxic in any of the following test systems: the Ames test for bacterial mutagenesis; the mouse lymphoma assay for mammalian cell mutation; the chromosomal aberration assay in Chinese hamster ovary cells, with and without metabolic activation; and the in vivo micronucleus test in mice.
Impairment of Fertility No effects on fertility were observed in male and female rats given subcutaneous teriparatide doses of 30, 100, or 300 mcg/kg/day prior to mating and in females continuing through gestation Day 6 (16 to 160 times the human dose of 20 mcg based on surface area, mcg/m²).
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of FORTEO in pregnant women. In animal studies, teriparatide increased skeletal deviations and variations in mouse offspring at doses more than 60 times the equivalent human dose and produced mild growth retardation and reduced motor activity in rat offspring at doses more than 120 times the equivalent human dose. FORTEO should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
In animal studies, pregnant mice received teriparatide during organogenesis at subcutaneous doses 8 to 267 times the human dose. At doses ≥ 60 times the human dose, the fetuses showed an increased incidence of skeletal deviations or variations (interrupted rib, extra vertebra or rib). When pregnant rats received subcutaneous teriparatide during organogenesis at doses 16 to 540 times the human dose, the fetuses showed no abnormal findings.
In a perinatal/postnatal study, pregnant rats received subcutaneous teriparatide from organogenesis through lactation. Mild growth retardation in female offspring at doses ≥ 120 times the human dose (based on surface area, mcg/m²). Mild growth retardation in male offspring and reduced motor activity in both male and female offspring occurred at maternal doses 540 times the human dose. There were no developmental or reproductive effects in mice or rats at doses 8 or 16 times the human dose, respectively.
Exposure multiples were normalized based on body surface area (mcg/m²). Actual animal doses: mice (30 to 1000 mcg/kg/day); rats (30 to 1000 mcg/kg/day).
It is not known whether teriparatide is excreted in human milk. Because of the potential for tumorigenicity shown for teriparatide in animal studies, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
The safety and efficacy of FORTEO have not been established in any pediatric population. FORTEO should not be prescribed in patients at an increased baseline risk of osteosarcoma which include pediatric and young adult patients with open epiphyses. Therefore, FORTEO is not indicated for use in pediatric or young adult patients with open epiphyses [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Of the patients receiving FORTEO in the osteoporosis trial of 1637 postmenopausal women, 75% were 65 years of age and over and 23% were 75 years of age and over. Of the patients receiving FORTEO in the osteoporosis trial of 437 men, 39% were 65 years of age and over and 13% were 75 years of age and over. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.
No studies have been performed in patients with hepatic impairment. [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
In 5 patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl < 30 mL/min), the AUC and T½ of teriparatide were increased by 73% and 77%, respectively. Maximum serum concentration of teriparatide was not increased [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Last updated on RxList: 8/10/2009
Incidents of overdose in humans have not been reported in clinical trials. Teriparatide has been administered in single doses of up to 100 mcg and in repeated doses of up to 60 mcg/day for 6 weeks. The effects of overdose that might be expected include a delayed hypercalcemic effect and risk of orthostatic hypotension. Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and headache might also occur.
In postmarketing spontaneous reports, there have been cases of medication errors in which the entire contents (up to 800 mcg) of the FORTEO delivery device (pen) have been administered as a single dose. Transient events reported have included nausea, weakness/lethargy and hypotension. In some cases, no adverse events occurred as a result of the overdose. No fatalities associated with overdose have been reported.
Overdose Management There is no specific antidote for teriparatide. Treatment of suspected overdose should include discontinuation of FORTEO, monitoring of serum calcium and phosphorus, and implementation of appropriate supportive measures, such as hydration.
Do not use FORTEO in patients with:
Last updated on RxList: 8/10/2009
Endogenous 84-amino acid parathyroid hormone (PTH) is the primary regulator of calcium and phosphate metabolism in bone and kidney. Physiological actions of PTH include regulation of bone metabolism, renal tubular reabsorption of calcium and phosphate, and intestinal calcium absorption. The biological actions of PTH and teriparatide are mediated through binding to specific high238 affinity cell-surface receptors. Teriparatide and the 34 N-terminal amino acids of PTH bind to these receptors with the same affinity and have the same physiological actions on bone and kidney. Teriparatide is not expected to accumulate in bone or other tissues.
The skeletal effects of teriparatide depend upon the pattern of systemic exposure. Once-daily administration of teriparatide stimulates new bone formation on trabecular and cortical (periosteal and/or endosteal) bone surfaces by preferential stimulation of osteoblastic activity over osteoclastic activity. In monkey studies, teriparatide improved trabecular microarchitecture and increased bone mass and strength by stimulating new bone formation in both cancellous and cortical bone. In humans, the anabolic effects of teriparatide manifest as an increase in skeletal mass, an increase in markers of bone formation and resorption, and an increase in bone strength. By contrast, continuous excess of endogenous PTH, as occurs in hyperparathyroidism, may be detrimental to the skeleton because bone resorption may be stimulated more than bone formation.
Effects on Mineral Metabolism Teriparatide affects calcium and phosphorus metabolism in a pattern consistent with the known actions of endogenous PTH (e.g., increases serum calcium and decreases serum phosphorus).
Serum Calcium Concentrations When teriparatide 20 mcg is administered once daily, the serum calcium concentration increases transiently, beginning approximately 2 hours after dosing and reaching a maximum concentration between 4 and 6 hours (median increase, 0.4 mg/dL). The serum calcium concentration begins to decline approximately 6 hours after dosing and returns to baseline by 16 to 24 hours after each dose.
In a clinical study of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, the median peak serum calcium concentration measured 4 to 6 hours after dosing with FORTEO (teriparatide 20 mcg) was 2.42 mmol/L (9.68 mg/dL) at 12 months. The peak serum calcium remained below 2.76 mmol/L (11.0 mg/dL) in > 99% of women at each visit. Sustained hypercalcemia was not observed.
In this study, 11.1% of women treated with FORTEO had at least 1 serum calcium value above the upper limit of normal [2.64 mmol/L (10.6 mg/dL)] compared with 1.5% of women treated with placebo. The percentage of women treated with FORTEO whose serum calcium was above the upper limit of normal on consecutive 4- to 6-hour post-dose measurements was 3.0% compared with 0.2% of women treated with placebo. In these women, calcium supplements and/or FORTEO doses were reduced. The timing of these dose reductions was at the discretion of the investigator. FORTEO dose adjustments were made at varying intervals after the first observation of increased serum calcium (median 21 weeks). During these intervals, there was no evidence of progressive increases in serum calcium.
In a clinical study of men with either primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis, the effects on serum calcium were similar to those observed in postmenopausal women. The median peak serum calcium concentration measured 4 to 6 hours after dosing with FORTEO was 2.35 mmol/L (9.44 mg/dL) at 12 months. The peak serum calcium remained below 2.76 mmol/L (11.0 mg/dL) in 98% of men at each visit. Sustained hypercalcemia was not observed.
In this study, 6.0% of men treated with FORTEO daily had at least 1 serum calcium value above the upper limit of normal [2.64 mmol/L (10.6 mg/dL)] compared with none of the men treated with placebo. The percentage of men treated with FORTEO whose serum calcium was above the upper limit of normal on consecutive measurements was 1.3% (2 men) compared with none of the men treated with placebo. Although calcium supplements and/or FORTEO doses could have been reduced in these men, only calcium supplementation was reduced [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and ADVERSE REACTIONS].
In a clinical study of women previously treated for 18 to 39 months with raloxifene (n=26) or alendronate (n=33), mean serum calcium > 12 hours after FORTEO injection was increased by 0.09 to 0.14 mmol/L (0.36 to 0.56 mg/dL), after 1 to 6 months of FORTEO treatment compared with baseline. Of the women pretreated with raloxifene, 3 (11.5%) had a serum calcium > 2.76 mmol/L (11.0 mg/dL), and of those pretreated with alendronate, 3 (9.1%) had a serum calcium > 2.76 mmol/L (11.0 mg/dL). The highest serum calcium reported was 3.12 mmol/L (12.5 mg/dL). None of the women had symptoms of hypercalcemia. There were no placebo controls in this study.
In the study of patients with glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis, the effects of FORTEO on serum calcium were similar to those observed in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis not taking glucocorticoids.
Urinary Calcium Excretion In a clinical study of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis who received 1000 mg of supplemental calcium and at least 400 IU of vitamin D, daily FORTEO increased urinary calcium excretion. The median urinary excretion of calcium was 4.8 mmol/day (190 mg/day) at 6 months and 4.2 mmol/day (170 mg/day) at 12 months. These levels were 0.76 mmol/day (30 mg/day) and 0.3 mmol/day (12 mg/day) higher, respectively, than in women treated with placebo. The incidence of hypercalciuria ( > 7.5 mmol Ca/day or 300 mg/day) was similar in the women treated with FORTEO or placebo.
In a clinical study of men with either primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis who received 1000 mg of supplemental calcium and at least 400 IU of vitamin D, daily FORTEO had inconsistent effects on urinary calcium excretion. The median urinary excretion of calcium was 5.6 mmol/day (220 mg/day) at 1 month and 5.3 mmol/day (210 mg/day) at 6 months. These levels were 0.5 mmol/day (20 mg/day) higher and 0.2 mmol/day (8.0 mg/day) lower, respectively, than in men treated with placebo. The incidence of hypercalciuria ( > 7.5 mmol Ca/day or 300 mg/day) was similar in the men treated with FORTEO or placebo.
Phosphorus and Vitamin D In single-dose studies, teriparatide produced transient phosphaturia and mild transient reductions in serum phosphorus concentration. However, hypophosphatemia ( < 0.74 mmol/L or 2.4 mg/dL) was not observed in clinical trials with FORTEO.
In clinical trials of daily FORTEO, the median serum concentration of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D was increased at 12 months by 19% in women and 14% in men, compared with baseline. In the placebo group, this concentration decreased by 2% in women and increased by 5% in men. The median serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration at 12 months was decreased by 19% in women and 10% in men compared with baseline. In the placebo group, this concentration was unchanged in women and increased by 1% in men.
In the study of patients with glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis, the effects of FORTEO on serum phosphorus were similar to those observed in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis not taking glucocorticoids.
Effects on Markers of Bone Turnover Daily administration of FORTEO to men and postmenopausal women with osteoporosis in clinical studies stimulated bone formation, as shown by increases in the formation markers serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BSAP) and procollagen I carboxy-terminal propeptide (PICP). Data on biochemical markers of bone turnover were available for the first 12 months of treatment. Peak concentrations of PICP at 1 month of treatment were approximately 41% above baseline, followed by a decline to near-baseline values by 12 months. BSAP concentrations increased by 1 month of treatment and continued to rise more slowly from 6 through 12 months. The maximum increases of BSAP were 45% above baseline in women and 23% in men. After discontinuation of therapy, BSAP concentrations returned toward baseline. The increases in formation markers were accompanied by secondary increases in the markers of bone resorption: urinary N-telopeptide (NTX) and urinary deoxypyridinoline (DPD), consistent with the physiological coupling of bone formation and resorption in skeletal remodeling. Changes in BSAP, NTX, and DPD were lower in men than in women, possibly because of lower systemic exposure to teriparatide in men.
In the study of patients with glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis, the effects of FORTEO on serum markers of bone turnover were similar to those observed in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis not taking glucocorticoids.
Teriparatide is absorbed after subcutaneous injection; the absolute bioavailability is approximately 95% based on pooled data from 20-, 40-, and 80- mcg doses. The rates of absorption and elimination are rapid. The peptide reaches peak serum concentrations about 30 minutes after subcutaneous injection of a 20-mcg dose and declines to non-quantifiable concentrations within hours.
Systemic clearance of teriparatide (approximately 62 L/hr in women and 94 L/hr in men) exceeds the rate of normal liver plasma flow, consistent with both hepatic and extra-hepatic clearance. Volume of distribution, following intravenous injection, is approximately 0.12 L/kg. Intersubject variability in systemic clearance and volume of distribution is 25% to 50%. The half-life of teriparatide in serum is 5 minutes when administered by intravenous injection and approximately 1 hour when administered by subcutaneous injection. The longer half-life following subcutaneous administration reflects the time required for absorption from the injection site.
No metabolism or excretion studies have been performed with teriparatide. However, the mechanisms of metabolism and elimination of PTH(1-34) and intact PTH have been extensively described in published literature. Peripheral metabolism of PTH is believed to occur by non-specific enzymatic mechanisms in the liver followed by excretion via the kidneys.
Pharmacokinetic data in pediatric patients are not available [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
No age-related differences in teriparatide pharmacokinetics were detected (range 31 to 85 years).
Although systemic exposure to teriparatide was approximately 20% to 30% lower in men than women, the recommended dose for both genders is 20 mcg/day.
The populations included in the pharmacokinetic analyses were 98.5% Caucasian. The influence of race has not been determined.
No pharmacokinetic differences were identified in 11 patients with mild or moderate renal impairment creatinine clearance (CrCl) 30 to 72 mL/min] administered a single dose of teriparatide. In 5 patients with severe renal impairment CrCl < 30 mL/min), the AUC and T½ of teriparatide were increased by 73% and 77%, respectively. Maximum serum concentration of teriparatide was not increased. No studies have been performed in patients undergoing dialysis for chronic renal failure [see Use in Specific Populations].
No studies have been performed in patients with hepatic impairment. Non-specific proteolytic enzymes in the liver (possibly Kupffer cells) cleave PTH(1-34) and PTH(1-84) into fragments that are cleared from the circulation mainly by the kidney [see Use in Specific Populations].
Digoxin In a study of 15 healthy people administered digoxin daily to steady state, a single FORTEO dose did not alter the effect of digoxin on the systolic time interval (from electrocardiographic Q-wave onset to aortic valve closure, a measure of digoxin's calcium-mediated cardiac effect). However, sporadic case reports have suggested that hypercalcemia may predispose patients to digitalis toxicity. Because FORTEO may transiently increase serum calcium, FORTEO should be used with caution in patients taking digoxin [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Hydrochlorothiazide In a study of 20 healthy people, the coadministration of hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg with teriparatide did not affect the serum calcium response to teriparatide 40 mcg. The 24-hour urine excretion of calcium was reduced by a clinically unimportant amount (15%). The effect of coadministration of a higher dose of hydrochlorothiazide with teriparatide on serum calcium levels has not been studied [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Furosemide In a study of 9 healthy people and 17 patients with mild, moderate, or severe renal impairment (CrCl 13 to 72 mL/min), coadministration of intravenous furosemide (20 to 100 mg) with teriparatide 40 mcg resulted in small increases in the serum calcium (2%) and 24-hour urine calcium (37%) responses to teriparatide that did not appear to be clinically important [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
In single-dose rodent studies using subcutaneous injection of teriparatide, no mortality was seen in rats given doses of 1000 mcg/kg (540 times the human dose based on surface area, mcg/m²) or in mice given 10,000 mcg/kg (2700 times the human dose based on surface area, mcg/m²).
In a long-term study, skeletally mature ovariectomized female monkeys (N=30 per treatment group) were given either daily subcutaneous teriparatide injections of 5 mcg/kg or vehicle. Following the 18-month treatment period, the monkeys were removed from teriparatide treatment and were observed for an additional 3 years. The 5 mcg/kg dose resulted in systemic exposures that were approximately 6 times higher than the systemic exposure observed in humans following a subcutaneous dose of 20 mcg (based on AUC comparison). Bone tumors were not detected by radiographic or histologic evaluation in any monkey in the study.
The safety and efficacy of once-daily FORTEO, median exposure of 19 months, were examined in a double-blind, multicenter, placebo-controlled clinical study of 1637 postmenopausal women with osteoporosis (FORTEO 20 mcg, n=541).
All women received 1000 mg of calcium and at least 400 IU of vitamin D per day. Baseline and endpoint spinal radiographs were evaluated using the semiquantitative scoring. Ninety percent of the women in the study had 1 or more radiographically diagnosed vertebral fractures at baseline. The primary efficacy endpoint was the occurrence of new radiographically diagnosed vertebral fractures defined as changes in the height of previously undeformed vertebrae. Such fractures are not necessarily symptomatic.
New Vertebral Fractures FORTEO, when taken with calcium and vitamin D and compared with calcium and vitamin D alone, reduced the risk of 1 or more new vertebral fractures from 14.3% of women in the placebo group to 5.0% in the FORTEO group. This difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001); the absolute reduction in risk was 9.3% and the relative reduction was 65%. FORTEO was effective in reducing the risk for vertebral fractures regardless of age, baseline rate of bone turnover, or baseline BMD (see Table 2).
Table 2 : Effect of FORTEO on Risk of Vertebral Fractures
in Postmenopausal Women with Osteoporosis
| Percent of Women With Fracture | ||||
| FORTEO (N=444) |
Placebo (N=448) |
Absolute Risk Reduction (%, 95% CI) | Relative Risk Reduction (%, 95% CI) | |
| New fracture ( ≥ 1) | 5.0a | 14.3 | 9.3 (5.5-13.1) | 65 (45-78) |
| 1 fracture | 3.8 | 9.4 | ||
| 2 fractures | 0.9 | 2.9 | ||
| ≥ 3 fractures | 0.2 | 2.0 | ||
| a p ≤ 0.001 compared with placebo. | ||||
New Nonvertebral Osteoporotic Fractures FORTEO significantly reduced the risk of any nonvertebral fracture from 5.5% in the placebo group to 2.6% in the FORTEO group (p < 0.05). The absolute reduction in risk was 2.9% and the relative reduction was 53%. The incidence of new nonvertebral fractures in the FORTEO group compared with the placebo group was ankle/foot (0.2%, 0.7%), hip (0.2%, 0.7%), humerus (0.4%, 0.4%), pelvis (0%, 0.6%), ribs (0.6%, 0.9%), wrist (0.4%, 1.3%), and other sites (1.1%, 1.5%), respectively.
The cumulative percentage of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis who sustained new nonvertebral fractures was lower in women treated with FORTEO than in women treated with placebo (see Figure 1).
Figure 1 : Cumulative Percentage of Postmenopausal Women
with Osteoporosis Sustaining New Nonvertebral Osteoporotic Fractures
 |
FORTEO increased lumbar spine BMD in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. Statistically significant increases were seen at 3 months and continued throughout the treatment period. Postmenopausal women with osteoporosis who were treated with FORTEO had statistically significant increases in BMD from baseline to endpoint at the lumbar spine, femoral neck, total hip, and total body (see Table 3).
Table 3 : Mean Percent Change in BMD from Baseline to Endpointa in Postmenopausal Women with Osteoporosis, Treated with FORTEO or Placebo for a Median of 19 Months
| FORTEO N=541 |
Placebo N=544 |
|
| Lumbar spine BMD | 9.7b | 1.1 |
| Femoral neck BMD | 2.8c | -0.7 |
| Total hip BMD | 2.6c | -1.0 |
| Trochanter BMD | 3.5c | -0.2 |
| Intertrochanter BMD | 2.6c | -1.3 |
| Ward's triangle BMD | 4.2c | -0.8 |
| Total body BMD | 0.6c | -0.5 |
| Distal 1/3 radius BMD | -2.1 | -1.3 |
| Ultradistal radius BMD | -0.1 | -1.6 |
| a Intent-to-treat analysis, last observation
carried forward. b p < 0.001 compared with placebo. c p < 0.05 compared with placebo. |
||
FORTEO treatment increased lumbar spine BMD from baseline in 96% of postmenopausal women treated. Seventy-two percent of patients treated with FORTEO achieved at least a 5% increase in spine BMD, and 44% gained 10% or more.
Both treatment groups lost height during the trial. The mean decreases were 3.61 and 2.81 mm in the placebo and FORTEO groups, respectively.
The effects of teriparatide on bone histology were evaluated in iliac crest biopsies of 35 postmenopausal women treated for 12 to 24 months with calcium and vitamin D and teriparatide 20 or 40 mcg/day. Normal mineralization was observed with no evidence of cellular toxicity. The new bone formed with teriparatide was of normal quality (as evidenced by the absence of woven bone and marrow fibrosis).
The safety and efficacy of once-daily FORTEO, median exposure of 10 months, were examined in a double-blind, multicenter, placebo-controlled clinical study of 437 men with either primary (idiopathic) or hypogonadal osteoporosis (FORTEO 20 mcg, n=151). All men received 1000 mg of calcium and at least 400 IU of vitamin D per day. The primary efficacy endpoint was change in lumbar spine BMD.
FORTEO increased lumbar spine BMD in men with primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis. Statistically significant increases were seen at 3 months and continued throughout the treatment period. FORTEO was effective in increasing lumbar spine BMD regardless of age, baseline rate of bone turnover, and baseline BMD. The effects of FORTEO at additional skeletal sites are shown in Table 4.
FORTEO treatment for a median of 10 months increased lumbar spine BMD from baseline in 94% of men treated. Fifty-three percent of patients treated with FORTEO achieved at least a 5% increase in spine BMD, and 14% gained 10% or more.
Table 4 : Mean Percent Change in BMD from Baseline to Endpointa
in Men with Primary or Hypogonadal Osteoporosis, Treated with FORTEO or Placebo
for a Median of 10 Months
| FORTEO N=151 |
Placebo N=147 |
|
| Lumbar spine BMD | 5.9b | 0.5 |
| Femoral neck BMD | 1.5c | 0.3 |
| Total hip BMD | 1.2 | 0.5 |
| Trochanter BMD | 1.3 | 1.1 |
| Intertrochanter BMD | 1.2 | 0.6 |
| Ward's triangle BMD | 2.8 | 1.1 |
| Total body BMD | 0.4 | -0.4 |
| Distal 1/3 radius BMD | -0.5 | -0.2 |
| Ultradistal radius BMD | -0.5 | -0.3 |
| a Intent-to-treat analysis, last observation
carried forward. b p < 0.001 compared with placebo. c p < 0.05 compared with placebo. |
||
The efficacy of FORTEO for treating glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis was assessed in a randomized, double-blind, active461 controlled trial of 428 patients (19% men, 81% women) aged 22 to 89 years (mean 57 years) treated with ≥ 5 mg/day prednisone or equivalent for a minimum of 3 months. The duration of the trial was 18 months with 214 patients exposed to FORTEO. In the FORTEO group, the baseline median glucocorticoid dose was 7.5 mg/day and the median duration of glucocorticoid use was 1.5 years. The mean (SD) baseline lumbar spine BMD was 0.85 ± 0.13 g/cm² and lumbar spine BMD T-score was 2.5 ± 1 (number of standard deviations below the mean BMD value for healthy adults). A total of 30% of patients had prevalent vertebral fracture(s) and 43% had prior non-vertebral fracture(s). The patients had chronic rheumatologic, respiratory or other diseases that required sustained glucocorticoid therapy. All patients received 1000 mg of calcium plus 800 IU of vitamin D supplementation per day.
Because of differences in mechanism of action (anabolic vs. anti-resorptive) and lack of clarity regarding differences in BMD as an adequate predictor of fracture efficacy, data on the active comparator are not presented.
In patients with glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis, FORTEO increased lumbar spine BMD compared with baseline at 3 months through 18 months of treatment. In patients treated with FORTEO, the mean percent change in BMD from baseline to endpoint was 7.2% at the lumbar spine, 3.6% at the total hip, and 3.7% at the femoral neck (p < 0.001 all sites). The relative treatment effects of FORTEO were consistent in subgroups defined by gender, age, geographic region, body mass index, underlying disease, prevalent vertebral fracture, baseline glucocorticoid dose, prior bisphosphonate use, and glucocorticoid discontinuation during trial.
Last updated on RxList: 8/10/2009
Medication Guide
FORTEO® (for-TAY-o)
teriparatide (rDNA origin) injection
Read this Medication Guide before you start taking FORTEO and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. Also, read the User Manual that comes with the FORTEO delivery device (pen) for information on how to use the device to inject your medicine the right way. This Medication Guide does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider about your medical condition or your treatment.
What is the most important information I should know about FORTEO?
What is FORTEO?
It is not known if FORTEO is safe and effective in children.
FORTEO should not be used in children and young adults whose bones are still growing.
Who should not use FORTEO?
Do not use FORTEO if you:
What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking FORTEO?
Before you take FORTEO, tell your healthcare provider if you:
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Your healthcare provider needs this information to help keep you from taking FORTEO with other medicines that may harm you.
How should I use FORTEO?
Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about other ways you can help your osteoporosis, such as exercise, diet, and reducing or stopping your use of tobacco and alcohol. If your healthcare provider recommends calcium and vitamin D supplements, you can take them at the same time you take FORTEO.
What are the possible side effects of FORTEO?
FORTEO can cause serious side effects including:
Common side effects of FORTEO include:
Your healthcare provider may take samples of blood and urine during treatment to check your response to FORTEO. Also, your healthcare provider may ask you to have follow-up tests of bone mineral density.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.
These are not all the possible side effects of FORTEO. For more information, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
How should I store FORTEO?
Keep FORTEO and all medicines out of the reach of children.
General information about FORTEO
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use FORTEO for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give FORTEO to other people, even if they have the same condition you have. This Medication Guide summarizes the most important information about FORTEO. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about FORTEO that is written for healthcare professionals. For more information, go to www.FORTEO.com or call Lilly at 1-866-436-7836.
What are the ingredients in FORTEO?
Active ingredient: teriparatide Inactive ingredients: glacial acetic acid, sodium acetate (anhydrous), mannitol, metacresol, and water for injection. In addition, hydrochloric acid solution 10% and/or sodium hydroxide solution 10% may have been added to adjust the product to pH 4.
What is Osteoporosis? Osteoporosis is a disease in which the bones become thin and weak, increasing the chance of having a broken bone. Osteoporosis usually causes no symptoms until a fracture happens. The most common fractures are in the spine (backbone). They can shorten height, even without causing pain. Over time, the spine can become curved or deformed and the body bent over. Fractures from osteoporosis can also happen in almost any bone in the body, for example, the wrist, rib, or hip. Once you have had a fracture, the chance for more fractures greatly increases.
The following risk factors increase your chance of getting fractures from osteoporosis:
This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Last updated on RxList: 8/10/2009
IMPORTANT NOTE: This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your health care professional. Always seek the advice of your health care professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your health care professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you.
TERIPARATIDE - INJECTION
(tare-ree-PAIR-ah-tide)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Forteo
WARNING: This medication has been shown to increase the rate of bone tumors (osteosarcoma) in animal (rat) studies. However, the increase occurred at doses higher than the normal human dose. Because it is unknown if there is a higher risk of bone tumors in humans, teriparatide should only be used in patients for whom the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk.
Teriparatide should not be used in patients who are at an increased risk of developing bone tumors (e.g., patients with Paget's disease, unexplained elevations of alkaline phosphatase, open epiphyses, or prior radiation therapy involving the skeleton).
USES: This medication is used in women after menopause and in men to treat bone weakening (osteoporosis). It is also used in patients who are at high risk of getting fractures, have had fractures, or who cannot use other osteoporosis treatments.
Teriparatide is a man-made (synthetic) form of the active part of a natural hormone (parathyroid hormone). It works by increasing bone mass and strength which decreases the chance of getting a fracture.
HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using teriparatide and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions regarding the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication is provided in a pen device for injection of the drug. A manual is provided with instructions on the proper way to prepare and inject this drug. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions you may have about giving yourself shots. Inject this medication under the skin (subcutaneously) into the thigh or abdominal wall, usually once a day or as directed by your doctor. Use a new needle with each dose. Learn how to store and discard needles properly.
You may feel dizzy or have a fast heartbeat after the first few doses. In case you experience these symptoms, inject this medication where you can sit or lie down right away if necessary.
Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If present, do not use the liquid.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: nausea, vomiting, constipation, sluggishness, muscle weakness.
Seek immediate medical attention if this serious side effect occurs: chest pain.
An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Contact your doctor for medical advice about side effects. The following numbers do not provide medical advice, but in the US you may report side effects to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at 1-800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you may call Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: Paget's disease, unexplained high levels of alkaline phosphatase in the blood, active bone growth (e.g., in children or young adults), history of radiation therapy of the bones, high amount of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia), bone cancer, other bone disorders.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney stones, any allergies.
This drug may make you dizzy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages.
To minimize dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position.
This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor for more details.
It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription products you may use, especially of: digoxin.
Teriparatide may temporarily increase the amount of calcium in your blood. Before you have any laboratory tests, tell the laboratory personnel that you use this medication.
This document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include: nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness or weakness especially on standing.
NOTES: Lifestyle changes that help promote healthy bones include increasing weight-bearing exercise, stopping smoking, limiting alcohol, and eating well-balanced meals that contain adequate calcium and vitamin D. Since you may also need to take calcium and vitamin D supplements and make lifestyle changes, consult your doctor for specific advice.
Do not share this medication with others.
Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., calcium) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Refrigerate between 36-46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C) away from light and moisture. This medication may be injected immediately after removing from the refrigerator. Recap the pen when not in use. Do not freeze. Do not use this medication if it has been frozen. Each pen may be used for up to 28 days after the first injection. After 28 days of use, discard the pen, even if it still contains unused solution. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.
Information last revised July 2008 Copyright(c) 2008 First DataBank, Inc.
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