Teriparatide (hPTH-[1-34]) - A recombinant human parathyroid hormone fragment with anabolic actions for the treatment of osteoporosis

The medications currently available to treat osteoporosis slow the rate of bone loss primarily by decreasing bone resorption. This contrasts with the action of an anabolic agent such as teriparatide, which increases bone mass by stimulating osteoblastic activity. Increased bone mass is a desired outcome because it correlates with reduced bone fracture rates. Teriparatide is a synthetic 34-amino-acid fragment of human parathyroid hormone currently under FDA review; approval is anticipated later this year for treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women (and possibly men) at high risk for fractures. Clinical trials have shown it to be effective for preventing vertebral fractures-in high-risk postmenopausal women, and clinical trial evidence is accumulating to support use in other populations with osteoporosis. Although it must be administered via daily subcutaneous injection, teriparatide has been associated with minimal side effects and no reported drug interactions. It is not expected to be a first-line drug but rather be used by patents with advanced disease as adjunctive therapy to current antiresorptive treatment.