Supplement Scholar
Bone

Teriparatide

Research compound. This is not a dietary supplement. Unless it is identified as an approved prescription drug, it is not approved by the FDA for human use. This page summarizes published research for education only; we do not sell it or link to sellers.

Teriparatide. The first 34 amino acids of parathyroid hormone; a daily injection that builds new bone in severe osteoporosis.

How it works. Intermittent activation of PTH1 receptors on bone-building cells increases bone formation more than bone breakdown.

What the research supports. 2 graded claims. Strongest: Reduces vertebral fractures (about 65%) (strong).

Hormonal impact. Effects on Calcium (blood), Parathyroid hormone signaling.

Side effects and interactions. 1 medication interaction listed. Serious: High blood calcium.

Stacking. Pairs well with Calcium and vitamin D.

Common forms. Available as Daily injection pen.

Community. Experiences from people who have tried Teriparatide. Anecdotes are not medical advice.

Teriparatide. The first 34 amino acids of parathyroid hormone; a daily injection that builds new bone in severe osteoporosis.

34-residue chainC181H291N55O51S2 · 4118 g/mol

What it is

Most osteoporosis drugs slow bone loss; teriparatide stimulates new bone formation. It is usually given for up to two years to people at high fracture risk, followed by a bone-preserving drug.

Also called

ForteoPTH 1-34

How it works

Intermittent activation of PTH1 receptors on bone-building cells increases bone formation more than bone breakdown.

Pathways

  • PTH1 receptor agonism (intermittent)
  • Osteoblast activation
  • Bone formation

Effects

  • ↑Bone mineral density increases
  • ↓Fracture risk decreases

What the research supports

Reduces vertebral fractures (about 65%)strong
Reduces non-vertebral fracturesmoderate

Strong: consistent results across large trials or meta-analyses. Moderate: several trials, mostly positive. Limited: small or mixed studies. Preclinical: animal or cell research only.

Hormonal impact

↑Calcium (blood)increases
↑Parathyroid hormone signalingincreases

Side effects & interactions

Common side effects

  • Dizziness
  • Leg cramps
  • Nausea

Serious

  • High blood calcium
  • Bone cancer in rats (label warning; not seen in human studies)

Medication interactions

Digoxinmoderate

High calcium can increase digoxin toxicity.

Check any supplement–medication combination with your pharmacist before starting.

Combines with

Pairs well

  • Calcium and vitamin DAdequate intake is needed for new bone.

Common forms

  • Daily injection pen

Discussion

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