Has your doctor prescribed you a Parathyroid Hormone injection? Or is a family member or friend taking this medication? You may be a little worried or curious about this. That's normal. Today, we'll talk about this in a simple, understandable way that will clear up any doubts you may have.
Simply put, what is this Parathyroid Hormone injection?
To understand this, we first need to know a little about the parathyroid glands in our bodies. These four small glands are located behind the thyroid gland in our neck. The main thing they do with the parathyroid hormone they secrete is to control the calcium levels in our blood.
However, some people's bodies produce less of this hormone. We call this condition hypoparathyroidism. Then the calcium level in the blood can become dangerously low. In such cases, we use this injection to provide the parathyroid hormone that the body needs from outside. To be precise, this is a synthetic hormone that is similar to the hormone that is naturally produced in the body.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication
This is very important. Before you start taking this medicine, you should tell your doctor about your complete health history. Especially if you have any of the conditions listed below.
| Do you have these conditions? | How to notify the doctor |
|---|---|
| Bone-related problems | If you have bone cancer or another bone-related condition, such as Paget's disease. |
| High levels in the blood | If tests have confirmed that your blood calcium or alkaline phosphatase levels are elevated. |
| Radiation therapy | If you have recently received or are currently receiving radiation therapy. |
| Allergies | If you have an allergic reaction to parathyroid hormone or any other medicine, food, or dye. |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant , or breastfeeding . |
How exactly is this vaccine used?
This injection is given under the skin of your thigh . It is designed so that you can give it to yourself. It comes with a special pen-like device (Q-Cliq pen). Your doctor or nurse will show you how to use it and prepare the medicine.
The most important thing is, do not change the way the doctor told you for any reason. Take the exact dose at the exact time.
Another important thing is about used needles and medication cartridges.
- Don't throw used needles and cartridges in the trash!
- They should be placed in a special container (sharps container) that is provided.
- If you don't have one, ask your doctor for one.
When you are prescribed this medicine, you will receive a special information leaflet (MedGuide). This comes with every prescription, so read it carefully. Also, remember that this medicine is not approved for use in children.
What to do if the medication dose increases?
If you think you have taken an overdose, don't panic. But take action. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
Try your best not to miss a dose. But if you do, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once. If you miss more than one dose, call your doctor for advice.
Things to be aware of and side effects when taking this medicine
Your doctor will check you regularly while you are taking this medicine. You may also need to have blood tests to check your calcium levels.
- Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly! It is not a good idea to stop taking this medicine suddenly without your doctor's advice. Doing so may cause a severe reaction.
- Calcium and Vitamin D: It is very important to get the exact amount of calcium and vitamin D you need when taking this medicine. Your doctor will tell you how much to take.
- Other medications: Tell your doctor about all the medications you take (especially alendronate or digoxin), vitamins, herbal remedies, and if you smoke or drink alcohol. Some things can interact with this medication.
- Cancer risk: It has been found that taking this medicine may slightly increase the risk of developing some types of cancer (especially bone cancer). Don't be alarmed by this, but it is very important to talk openly with your doctor about this risk and seek advice.
Possible side effects
| Type of side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| If you experience these symptoms, tell your doctor immediately. | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Bone Pain | If you feel like your bones are hurting. |
| Symptoms of high calcium levels | Frequent thirst , persistent nausea or vomiting, constipation, stomach pain, muscle weakness, extreme fatigue, and confusion. |
| Symptoms of low calcium levels | Muscle twitching, numbness in the hands, feet, and face, seizures. |
| These are usually not serious, but if they persist, tell your doctor. | |
| Other minor ailments | Diarrhea, headache, joint pain, mild nausea or vomiting. |
How to store the medicine? (Storage)
It is also very important to store this medicine properly.
- Before use: Store unopened cartridges in the refrigerator (between 2-8 degrees Celsius). Do not store in the freezer.
- After use: Keep the Q-Cliq pen in the refrigerator with the medicine mixed in. It can be used for 14 days .
- After 14 days, any medicine left in the cartridge in the pen should be discarded.
- But don't throw away the Q-Cliq pen! It can be used for up to 2 years, with a new medication cartridge inserted every 14 days.
Take-Home Message
- This injection controls calcium levels by externally administering the parathyroid hormone that is naturally lacking in your body.
- Before starting the medication, be sure to tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions and other medications you are taking.
- Follow the instructions for using the injection pen and removing needles exactly.
- Never stop taking medication without your doctor's advice.
- If you suspect an overdose, go to the National Poisons Information Centre or the hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately.
- Be aware of symptoms of high or low calcium levels. If you notice any of these, tell your doctor immediately.
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