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Teriparatide (Forteo) Coupon - Teriparatide (Forteo) 20mcg/dose pen

teriparatide

Generic Forteo
Used for Osteoporosis
Used for Osteoporosis

Forteo (teriparatide) is used to treat osteoporosis (bone loss or weakening). It's for people who are at very high fracture risk or people who've already tried other osteoporosis medications. Forteo (teriparatide) is an injection that you give to yourself once a day. Some common side effects include general body pain and joint pain. This medication comes as a prefilled pen, but it doesn't come with pen needles. Forteo (teriparatide) is only available as a brand medication; there's no generic version yet.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Cydnee Ng, PharmD
reviewer
Michelle Nguyen, PharmD
Last reviewed on May 15, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
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What is Forteo (teriparatide)?

What is Forteo (teriparatide) used for?

How Forteo (teriparatide) works

Forteo (teriparatide) is a parathyroid hormone (PTH) analog, meaning it works similarly to the PTH your body normally makes. PTH is a hormone that's important in balancing bone breakdown and formation to keep your bones healthy.

Forteo (teriparatide) works by promoting bone growth. This helps raise your bone mineral density (BMD), which is a measure of how strong your bones are. A higher BMD means your bones are stronger, which helps lower your risk of bone fractures.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsForteo
Drug ClassParathyroid hormone analog
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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What are the side effects of Forteo (teriparatide)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Body pain (21%)
  • Joint pain (10%)
  • Runny nose (10%)
  • Nausea (9%)
  • Body weakness (9%)
  • Headache (8%)
  • Dizziness (8%)
  • High blood pressure (7%)

Other Side Effects

  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Indigestion
  • Feeling like your surroundings are spinning (vertigo)

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • High calcium levels in the blood: tiredness, abnormal or irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness
  • New or worsening open wound or ulcer on your skin

Source: DailyMed

More on Forteo (teriparatide) side effects

Medication Education: side effects forteo

8 Forteo Side Effects You Should Know About

Written by Daphne Berryhill, RPh

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Confusion

constipation

depression

dry mouth

headache

incoherent speech

increased urination

loss of appetite

metallic taste

muscle weakness

nausea

stomach pain

thirst

unusual tiredness

vomiting

weight loss

Less common

Arm, back, or jaw pain

chest pain, discomfort, tightness, or heaviness

cough

fainting

fast or irregular heartbeat

fever or chills

nausea

sneezing

sore throat

sweating

trouble breathing

Incidence not known

Hives or welts, itching, skin rash

redness of the skin

swelling or puffiness of the mouth and face

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Acid or sour stomach

belching

blurred vision

body aches or pain

diarrhea

difficulty having a bowel movement (stool)

difficulty with moving

dizziness

heartburn

hoarseness

indigestion

lack or loss of strength

muscle pain, stiffness, or spasm

nervousness

pain in the joints

pounding in the ears

runny or stuffy nose

tender, swollen glands in the neck

trouble with swallowing

voice changes

Less common

Back pain

discomfort

discouragement

dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings

feeling sad or empty

indigestion

irritability

lack of appetite

leg cramps

loss of interest or pleasure

neck pain

sensation of spinning

sleeplessness

stomach cramps

swollen mouth and tongue

tiredness

tooth disorder

trouble concentrating

trouble sleeping

unpleasant taste

urge to have bowel movement

Incidence not known

Bleeding, blistering, burning, coldness, discoloration of skin, feeling of pressure, hives, infection, inflammation, itching, lumps, numbness, pain, rash, redness, scarring, soreness, stinging, swelling, tenderness, tingling, ulceration, or warmth at the injection site

flushing

unusually warm skin

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Forteo (teriparatide)

thumbs-up

Pros

Can use if you're unable to take or still getting fractures with other osteoporosis medications

A first-choice option for people at very high fracture risk (have had a fracture caused by osteoporosis before or have many risk factors for fracture)

Lowers the risk for back fractures and fractures in other parts of the body (not including the hip) in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis

thumbs-down

Cons

Not a first-choice option for most people with osteoporosis

Only available as an injection under the skin

Can only use for a total of 2 years throughout your entire life because of unclear risk for bone cancer with longer treatment

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Forteo (teriparatide)

pharmacist

  • Keep Forteo (teriparatide) in the refrigerator except when you need to use it. Use the medication right away after taking it out of the refrigerator. Don't freeze or use if it's been frozen. Forteo (teriparatide) isn't safe to use if it gets too warm or too cold.

    • Each Forteo (teriparatide) pen can be used for up to 28 days. Throw away the pen 28 days after you first use it even if it's not completely empty.

      • Use Forteo (teriparatide) while sitting or lying down since it might cause dizziness right after the injection. If you feel dizzy, lie down, and it should go away within a few hours.

        • Your healthcare provider might tell you to take calcium and vitamin D supplements along with your Forteo (teriparatide) treatment. These supplements can help your bones get stronger.

          How to use Forteo (teriparatide)

          • Before using Forteo (teriparatide), it's important to carefully read the User Guide that comes with the pen. These instructions help you to set up, inject the medication, and clean up safely. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions about how to use Forteo (teriparatide).

            • Clean the area where you'll be injecting into with an alcohol swab to prevent infections. Use a new pen needle every time you use the medication. And don't share your pen or pen needles with anyone else. These steps help prevent infections from spreading as well.

              • Place a new needle onto the pen and set the dose. Then, inject Forteo (teriparatide) under the skin in your lower stomach or the outer part of your thigh. Inject into different areas each time to prevent skin irritation or damage.

                • Inject Forteo (teriparatide) under the skin by gently pinching your skin away from your body. Then, push the needle straight into the skin. Press the black button at the top of the pen down until it stops. Slowly count to 5 to make sure all the medication gets into your body. Then, pull the needle straight out.

                  • Once you've injected your dose, remove the needle from the pen. Throw the pen needle away in a sharps container to prevent accidental injuries.

                    faqs

                    Frequently asked questions about Forteo (teriparatide)

                    How long does it take for Forteo (teriparatide) to work?
                    In studies, Forteo (teriparatide) helped raise the bone mineral density (BMD) at the lower spine 3 months after the start of treatment. A higher BMD means stronger bones. This time frame was generally consistent across studies for postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, men with osteoporosis, and people with osteoporosis that was caused by long-term corticosteroid use.
                    What should I do if I forget to put Forteo (teriparatide) back in the refrigerator?
                    Put the Forteo (teriparatide) pen back in the refrigerator as soon as you remember. Each pen can be at room temperature (up to 77 degrees Fahrenheit) for a total of 36 hours. If it's been outside of the refrigerator for more than 36 hours or if you have other questions, call the manufacturer (Eli Lilly) at 1-866-436-7836.
                    Where do I inject Forteo (teriparatide)?
                    Inject Forteo (teriparatide) under the skin of your lower stomach or your thigh. Remember to choose a different area to inject into for each dose. This prevents skin irritation that you can get if you use the same spot over and over again.
                    How do I inject Forteo (teriparatide)?
                    Review the Forteo (teriparatide) User Guide for instructions on how to inject the medication safely and properly. Make sure that you've set the dose before injecting the medication. Once you're ready, gently pinch your skin away from your lower stomach or your thigh. Then, push the needle straight into the pinched skin. Press down on the black button at the top of the pen until it stops. Slowly count to 5 to make sure you get the full dose of medication. Then, pull the needle straight out. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions about how to inject Forteo (teriparatide).
                    How much does Forteo (teriparatide) lower the risk of fractures?
                    In studies, Forteo (teriparatide) treatment with calcium and vitamin D supplements lowered the risk of new back fractures by 65% compared to supplement treatment alone. Taking Forteo (teriparatide) with the supplements also lowered the risk of new fractures at other parts of the body by 53% compared to the supplements alone. Keep in mind that these studies only included postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. How well Forteo (teriparatide) works to lower fracture risk in men with osteoporosis or in people with osteoporosis that was caused by long-term corticosteroid use might be different. Speak with your healthcare provider about how well Forteo (teriparatide) is working for you.
                    Why can't you take Forteo (teriparatide) for more than 2 years?
                    You can't take Forteo (teriparatide) for more than 2 years because of a possible risk for osteosarcoma (a type of bone cancer). Because there have only been rare cases of this happening during Forteo (teriparatide) treatment, there's not enough information to confirm a link between the medication and a higher risk for the cancer. Human and animal studies generally lasted 2 years so the risk for osteosarcoma after using Forteo (teriparatide) for more than 2 years is unclear. To be safe, it's recommended that Forteo (teriparatide) is used for only 2 years. The American Association of Clinical Endocrinology (AACE) guidelines recommend that a bisphosphonate or Prolia (denosumab) should be used after Forteo (teriparatide) to maintain your bone strength and keep fracture risk low. If you're still at high risk of fracture after 2 years, talk to your healthcare provider about what osteoporosis medication to take next.
                    What happens when you stop taking Forteo (teriparatide)?
                    In studies, men and postmenopausal women with osteoporosis experienced bone loss over the course of a year after stopping Forteo (teriparatide). Other studies suggest that there's still a lowered fracture risk up to 1.5 years after people stop taking Forteo (teriparatide). But these effects will also probably disappear as time goes on. For these reasons, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology (AACE) guidelines recommend people who stop taking Forteo (teriparatide) to continue osteoporosis treatment with a bisphosphonate (like alendronate (Fosamax)) or Prolia (denosumab), if they can. This helps prevent bone loss and keep your fracture risk low after you stop taking Forteo (teriparatide). If you need to stop Forteo (teriparatide), discuss with your healthcare provider about what osteoporosis medication to take next.
                    What's the difference between Forteo (teriparatide) and Tymlos (abaloparatide)?
                    Forteo (teriparatide) and Tymlos (abaloparatide) are both osteoporosis medications that are injected under the skin once a day. They promote bone formation and strengthen your bones in similar ways. While Forteo (teriparatide) and Tymlos (abaloparatide) both help with osteoporosis in men and postmenopausal women, only Forteo (teriparatide) is also approved for treating osteoporosis due to long-term corticosteroid use. Some studies suggest that Tymlos (abaloparatide) might work better at lowering the risk of fractures than Forteo (teriparatide). These studies also suggest that Tymlos (abaloparatide) might have less of a risk of causing high calcium levels in the blood than Forteo (teriparatide). Discuss with your healthcare provider about the similarities and differences between the two medications and which one is right for you.
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                    What are the risks and warnings for Forteo (teriparatide)?

                    Forteo (teriparatide) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                    risk-warning

                    Bone cancer (osteosarcoma)

                    • Risk factors: Rickets | Paget's disease | Long bones that are still growing | History of bone cancer or cancer that has spread to the bones | Previous radiation therapy to the bones | Inherited conditions with higher risk of bone cancer

                      Some people taking Forteo (teriparatide) have developed a type of bone cancer called osteosarcoma. Because it's so rare, it's unclear if the risk of getting bone cancer is higher if you use the medication. To be extra careful, Forteo (teriparatide) shouldn't be used in people with certain bone conditions or people who are at a higher risk of bone cancer. There's not enough information to know about the risk of osteosarcoma when people use the medication for more than 2 years. So, your healthcare provider will discuss with you about stopping Forteo (teriparatide) after 2 years of treatment.

                      risk-warning

                      High calcium levels in the blood

                      • Risk factors: Conditions that can raise your calcium levels | History of high PTH levels in the blood

                        Forteo (teriparatide) can cause high calcium levels in your blood. If you already have a condition that can cause high calcium levels, avoid taking this medication because it can worsen this problem. Tell your healthcare provider about the medical conditions you have before starting Forteo (teriparatide). And if you experience tiredness, irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, constipation, or loss of appetite while you're taking Forteo (teriparatide), speak with your provider. These can be symptoms of high calcium levels.

                        In addition, too much calcium in the blood can break down skin. It can also cause the calcium to clump together and block blood from flowing to other parts of the body. If you have an autoimmune condition, kidney failure, or if you're also taking Forteo (teriparatide) with warfarin (Coumadin) or oral corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), you might be at higher risk for this serious complication. Stop taking Forteo (teriparatide) and tell your healthcare provider right away if you see a new or worsening ulcer on your skin, particularly on your thighs or buttocks.

                        risk-warning

                        Kidney stones

                        • Risk factors: History of kidney stones | History of high calcium levels in your urine

                          In studies, some people taking Forteo (teriparatide) had kidney stones. Sometimes, kidney stones can form if the calcium levels in your blood and urine are too high. Before starting this medication, let your healthcare provider know if you currently have a kidney stone or if you have high calcium levels in your urine. Your condition might worsen with Forteo (teriparatide) treatment. Contact your provider as soon as possible if you have severe lower back or side pain, nausea, vomiting, or urine that's bloody or darker, cloudier, or smellier than usual. These can be symptoms of a kidney stone.

                          risk-warning

                          Low blood pressure

                          While you're taking Forteo (teriparatide), you might have a drop in blood pressure when you stand up after sitting or lying down. This can make you feel dizzy or lightheaded. This drop in blood pressure typically happens during the first few times you take Forteo (teriparatide), but it gets better as you get used to the medication. And when it happens, it's usually within 4 hours of the injection. Sit or lie down when you inject, in case you feel dizzy or feel your heart racing. If you have these symptoms after injecting, lie down. The symptoms should go away within a few minutes to a few hours. If the symptoms don't go away or get worse, talk to your healthcare provider before you continue using Forteo (teriparatide).

                          risk-warning

                          Higher risk of side effects from digoxin (Lanoxin)

                          • Risk factors: Taking digoxin (Lanoxin) at the same time as Forteo (teriparatide)

                            Taking Forteo (teriparatide) together with the heart medication digoxin (Lanoxin) can possibly raise your risk of the toxic effects of digoxin (Lanoxin). Both Forteo (teriparatide) and digoxin (Lanoxin) can raise the calcium levels in your body. Because of this, Forteo (teriparatide) can boost the effects that digoxin (Lanoxin) has on the body. This can cause stomach upset, changes in vision, and irregular heart rhythms. If you're taking Forteo (teriparatide) and digoxin (Lanoxin), talk to your healthcare provider if you feel a slower or faster than usual heartbeat at any time during treatment.

                            dosage

                            Forteo (teriparatide) dosage forms

                            Typical dosing for Forteo (teriparatide)

                            The typical dose is 20 mcg injected once a day under the skin of your lower stomach or outer part of your thigh.

                            interactions

                            Interactions between Forteo (teriparatide) and other drugs

                            Forteo (teriparatide) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Forteo (teriparatide). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                            Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                            How much does Forteo (teriparatide) cost?

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                            alternatives

                            What are alternatives to Forteo (teriparatide)?

                            There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Forteo (teriparatide). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                            Forteo (teriparatide)
                            Used for:
                            $1219.25 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                            Tymlos (abaloparatide)
                            Used for:

                            • Osteoporosis in women who have gone through menopause (postmenopause)

                            • Osteoporosis in men

                            $2745.42 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                            Prolia (denosumab)
                            Used for:
                            $1832.87 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                            images

                            Forteo (teriparatide) images

                            colorless - Teriparatide Prefilled Pen 20mcg / dose Solution for Injection
                            This medicine is Colorless Pen.colorless - Teriparatide Prefilled Pen 20mcg / dose Solution for Injection
                            colorless - Teriparatide Prefilled Pen 20mcg / dose Solution for Injection
                            This medicine is Colorless Pen.colorless - Teriparatide Prefilled Pen 20mcg / dose Solution for Injection

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                            References

                            Best studies we found

                            You and Your Hormones. (2019). Parathyroid hormone. Society for Endocrinology.

                            MedlinePlus. (n.d.). Bone density.

                            Eli Lilly and Company. (2021). FORTEO- teriparatide injection, solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

                            View All References (8)

                            Camacho, P. M., et al. (2020). American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists/American College of Endocrinology clinical practice guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis – 2020 update. Endocrine Practice.

                            Eli Lilly and Company. (2019). FORTEO teriparatide injection: User manual.

                            FORTEO teriparatide injection. (n.d.). Learn how to inject with FORTEO (teriparatide injection).

                            American Cancer Society. (2020). What is osteosarcoma?

                            Leder, B. Z., et al. (2009). Effects of teriparatide treatment and discontinuation in postmenopausal women and eugonadal men with osteoporosis. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism.

                            Leder, B. Z. (2018). Optimizing sequential and combined anabolic and antiresorptive osteoporosis therapy. JBMR Plus.

                            Westphal, S. G., et al. (2022). Calciphylaxis. StatPearls.

                            Cummings, E. D., et al. (2023). Digoxin toxicity. StatPearls.

                            GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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