As we age, bones gradually weaken and a bone breaks even with a small fall, isn't it a serious problem for many people? This risk is especially high for mothers and fathers who have a disease called osteoporosis. So today we are talking about a special vaccine that is given to strengthen these weakened bones and prevent bone fractures. Its name is Teriparatide.
What is Teriparatide?
Simply put, teriparatide is a drug that helps our body make new bone cells and strengthens our bones. It's like giving our bone-building workers a boost. Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to break down and become less dense. This vaccine works by controlling that process and rebuilding healthy, strong bone tissue. This can help prevent future fractures.
The most important thing is, this is not a painkiller. It is about treating the disease first. That is, rebuilding weakened bones.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication
Before giving you this vaccine, your doctor will need to know your complete health history. This medicine is not suitable for people with certain medical conditions. So if you have any of the following conditions, tell your doctor without hiding anything .
| Your situation | Why should you tell the doctor? |
|---|---|
| Bone diseases other than osteoporosis (e.g. Paget's disease) | Since this medicine is not suitable for some bone diseases, it is essential to confirm the correct diagnosis. |
| Increased blood calcium levels | The teriparatide vaccine can also temporarily raise blood calcium levels, which can be dangerous if those levels are already high. |
| Having a history of bone cancer | This medicine is not recommended for people with this type of history. |
| Kidney stones | The medication may increase calcium levels in the urine, increasing the risk of kidney stones. |
| Being under radiation therapy | This medicine may not be suitable for people receiving radiation treatment. |
| Being pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | Since the safety of the medicine has not been established in these cases, its use should be avoided. |
| Allergies to other medicines, foods or substances | It is very important to inform your doctor about any allergies you have. |
How exactly is this vaccine used?
This is a small injection that is given under the skin (subcutaneous injection). It is usually given in the skin of the abdomen or thigh. Don't worry, your doctor or a trained nurse will show you clearly how to give this injection. They will show you how to use the injection pen, how to adjust the dose of the medicine, and how to inject it safely.
- Take it on time: Get your daily vaccinations exactly as your doctor tells you to, at the right time. Don't skip appointments.
- Disposing of sharps: Never throw used sharps or empty pens in the trash. It is very dangerous. There is a special thick plastic container (sharps container) that is provided for these. Put them in it and return it to the hospital when it is full. If you do not have such a container, ask your doctor for one.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Things to consider when taking medication
- Visiting the doctor: Visit your doctor on your scheduled appointments. You may need to have blood tests to see how the medication is affecting you.
- Calcium and Vitamin D: When taking this medicine, your body needs to get enough calcium and vitamin D. However, you should only take additional pills as directed by your doctor. You may be asked to stop taking the pills if your blood calcium levels are too high.
- Dizziness and drowsiness: You may feel dizzy and drowsy after receiving the vaccine, especially after the first few doses. Therefore, you should refrain from driving or operating machinery for a while until you know how this medicine affects you.
- Don't get up suddenly: Especially if you are an elderly person, don't get up suddenly from a sitting or lying position. Doing so can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure (postural hypotension) and dizziness. Get up slowly.
- Other medications: Tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking (such as digoxin, a heart medication), vitamins, and even traditional medicines, as some may interact with this vaccine.
What are the possible side effects?
Like all medicines, teriparatide injection can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Be aware of the following:
| If you experience these symptoms, tell your doctor immediately. | |
|---|---|
| Allergy symptoms | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Symptoms of low blood pressure | Severe dizziness, blue eyes, loss of consciousness, extreme fatigue. |
| Symptoms of elevated calcium levels | Nausea, vomiting, constipation, low energy, muscle weakness. |
| Symptoms of kidney stones | Blood in the urine, pain in the back or pelvis, pain when urinating. |
| These are usually not serious, but if they persist, tell your doctor. | |
|---|---|
| Headache | Joint pain |
| Nausea | Stomach discomfort |
| Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site | |
How do you store the medicine?
This is also very important. To preserve the quality of the medicine, it must be stored properly.
- Always keep it in the fridge. The temperature should be between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius. Most of the time, it's best to keep it in the fridge door.
- Never put it in the freezer. Do not let the medicine freeze. Do not use a medicine that has frozen.
- Once you've taken it out and used it, put the cap back on the pen and put it back in the fridge.
- The medicine in the pen must be used up within 28 days of the first injection . Throw away any remaining medicine after 28 days.
- Do not use expired medicine.
Take-Home Message
- Teriparatide is a vaccine that strengthens bones weakened by osteoporosis and prevents fractures.
- Before starting the medication, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and medications you are taking.
- Follow the instructions for use and timing of the vaccine as directed by your doctor. Dispose of used needles safely.
- If you feel dizzy after taking the medicine, avoid driving.
- If you experience symptoms of high calcium levels, such as nausea, vomiting, severe fatigue, or allergic symptoms, seek medical advice immediately.
- Always store the pen in the refrigerator. Never let it freeze.
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