Teriparatide Solution for injection

What is this medicine?

TERIPARATIDE (terr ih PAR a tyd) increases bone mass and strength. It helps make healthy bone and to slow bone loss. This medicine is used to prevent bone fractures.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine comes in an injection pen device. This pen injects the medicine under your skin. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You will be taught how to use this medicine. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Do not use this medicine if it has solid particles in it, or if it is cloudy or colored. It should be clear and colorless.

Be sure that you are using your pen device correctly.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• chronic constipation

• high blood pressure

• irregular heartbeat, chest pain

• nausea, vomiting

• unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• bone pain

• cough, runny nose

• headache

• leg cramps

• muscle spasms in the back or legs

• pain, redness, irritation or swelling at the injection site

• stomach upset

• trouble sleeping

What may interact with this medicine?

• digoxin

• other medicines to strengthen bone

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store in a refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees C (36 and 46 degrees F). Do not freeze. Recap the pen injector when not in use to protect it from light and damage. Use quickly after taking out of the refrigerator and return to refrigerator right after using. Throw away any unused medicine 28 days after the first injection from the device. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the pen and pen packaging.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• bone disease other than osteoporosis

• heart, kidney or liver disease

• history of cancer in the bone

• kidney stone

• Paget's disease

• parathyroid disease

• receiving radiation therapy

• an unusual or allergic reaction to teriparatide, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Your doctor may order blood tests and other tests to see how you are doing.

You should make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D while you are taking this medicine, unless your doctor tells you not to. Discuss the foods you eat and the vitamins you take with your health care professional.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.