These Highlights Do Not Include All The Information Needed To Use Forteo Safely And Effectively. See Full Prescribing Information For Forteo.

These Highlights Do Not Include All The Information Needed To Use Forteo Safely And Effectively. See Full Prescribing Information For Forteo.
SPL v42
SPL
SPL Set ID aae667c5-381f-4f92-93df-2ed6158d07b0
Route
SUBCUTANEOUS
Published
Effective Date 2025-06-03
Document Type 34391-3 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABEL

Drug Facts

Composition & Product

Active Ingredients
Teriparatide (250 ug)
Inactive Ingredients
Acetic Acid Sodium Acetate Anhydrous Mannitol Metacresol Water Hydrochloric Acid Sodium Hydroxide

Identifiers & Packaging

Marketing Status
NDA Completed Since 2025-06-03 Until 2027-02-02

Description

FORTEO is indicated: For the treatment of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis at high risk for fracture (defined herein as having a history of osteoporotic fracture or multiple risk factors for fracture) or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy. In postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, FORTEO reduces the risk of vertebral and nonvertebral fractures. To increase bone mass in men with primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis at high risk for fracture or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy. For the treatment of men and women with osteoporosis associated with sustained systemic glucocorticoid therapy (daily dosage equivalent to 5 mg or greater of prednisone) at high risk for fracture or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy.

Indications and Usage

FORTEO is indicated: For the treatment of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis at high risk for fracture (defined herein as having a history of osteoporotic fracture or multiple risk factors for fracture) or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy. In postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, FORTEO reduces the risk of vertebral and nonvertebral fractures. To increase bone mass in men with primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis at high risk for fracture or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy. For the treatment of men and women with osteoporosis associated with sustained systemic glucocorticoid therapy (daily dosage equivalent to 5 mg or greater of prednisone) at high risk for fracture or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy.

Dosage and Administration

Recommended dosage is 20 mcg subcutaneously once a day ( 2.1 ) Consider supplemental calcium and Vitamin D based on individual patient needs ( 2.1 ) Administer as a subcutaneous injection into the thigh or abdominal region ( 2.2 ) Administer initially under circumstances in which the patient can sit or lie down if symptoms of orthostatic hypotension occur ( 2.2 ) Use of FORTEO for more than 2 years during a patient's lifetime should only be considered if a patient remains at or has returned to having a high risk for fracture ( 2.3 )

Warnings and Precautions

Osteosarcoma : Avoid use in patients with increased risk of osteosarcoma including patients with open epiphyses, metabolic bone diseases including Paget's disease, bone metastases or history of skeletal malignancies, prior external beam or implant radiation therapy involving the skeleton, and hereditary disorders predisposing to osteosarcoma. ( 5.1 ) Hypercalcemia and Cutaneous Calcification : Avoid in patients known to have an underlying hypercalcemic disorder. Discontinue in patients developing worsening of previously stable cutaneous calcification. ( 5.2 ) Risk of Urolithiasis : Consider the risk/benefit in patients with active or recent urolithiasis because of risk of exacerbation ( 5.3 ) Orthostatic Hypotension : Transient orthostatic hypotension may occur with initial doses of FORTEO ( 5.4 )

Contraindications

FORTEO is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to teriparatide or to any of its excipients. Hypersensitivity reactions have included angioedema and anaphylaxis [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.3 )] .

Adverse Reactions

Most common adverse reactions (>10%) include: arthralgia, pain, and nausea ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Eli Lilly and Company at 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch

Drug Interactions

Digoxin: Transient hypercalcemia may predispose patients to digitalis toxicity ( 5.5 , 7.1 )

Storage and Handling

Store FORTEO under refrigeration at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) at all times except when administering the product. Recap the delivery device (pen) when not in use to protect the cartridge from physical damage and light. When using FORTEO, minimize the time out of the refrigerator; deliver the dose immediately following removal from the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Do not use FORTEO if it has been frozen. Throw away the device 28 days after first use.

How Supplied

FORTEO (teriparatide injection) is a clear and colorless solution, available as single-patient-use prefilled delivery device (pen) in the following package size: 560 mcg/2.24 mL (250 mcg/mL) [intended to deliver 28 daily doses of 20 mcg] NDC 0002-9678-01 (MS8400).


Medication Information

Warnings and Precautions

Osteosarcoma : Avoid use in patients with increased risk of osteosarcoma including patients with open epiphyses, metabolic bone diseases including Paget's disease, bone metastases or history of skeletal malignancies, prior external beam or implant radiation therapy involving the skeleton, and hereditary disorders predisposing to osteosarcoma. ( 5.1 ) Hypercalcemia and Cutaneous Calcification : Avoid in patients known to have an underlying hypercalcemic disorder. Discontinue in patients developing worsening of previously stable cutaneous calcification. ( 5.2 ) Risk of Urolithiasis : Consider the risk/benefit in patients with active or recent urolithiasis because of risk of exacerbation ( 5.3 ) Orthostatic Hypotension : Transient orthostatic hypotension may occur with initial doses of FORTEO ( 5.4 )

Indications and Usage

FORTEO is indicated: For the treatment of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis at high risk for fracture (defined herein as having a history of osteoporotic fracture or multiple risk factors for fracture) or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy. In postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, FORTEO reduces the risk of vertebral and nonvertebral fractures. To increase bone mass in men with primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis at high risk for fracture or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy. For the treatment of men and women with osteoporosis associated with sustained systemic glucocorticoid therapy (daily dosage equivalent to 5 mg or greater of prednisone) at high risk for fracture or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy.

Dosage and Administration

Recommended dosage is 20 mcg subcutaneously once a day ( 2.1 ) Consider supplemental calcium and Vitamin D based on individual patient needs ( 2.1 ) Administer as a subcutaneous injection into the thigh or abdominal region ( 2.2 ) Administer initially under circumstances in which the patient can sit or lie down if symptoms of orthostatic hypotension occur ( 2.2 ) Use of FORTEO for more than 2 years during a patient's lifetime should only be considered if a patient remains at or has returned to having a high risk for fracture ( 2.3 )

Contraindications

FORTEO is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to teriparatide or to any of its excipients. Hypersensitivity reactions have included angioedema and anaphylaxis [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.3 )] .

Adverse Reactions

Most common adverse reactions (>10%) include: arthralgia, pain, and nausea ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Eli Lilly and Company at 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch

Drug Interactions

Digoxin: Transient hypercalcemia may predispose patients to digitalis toxicity ( 5.5 , 7.1 )

Storage and Handling

Store FORTEO under refrigeration at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) at all times except when administering the product. Recap the delivery device (pen) when not in use to protect the cartridge from physical damage and light. When using FORTEO, minimize the time out of the refrigerator; deliver the dose immediately following removal from the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Do not use FORTEO if it has been frozen. Throw away the device 28 days after first use.

How Supplied

FORTEO (teriparatide injection) is a clear and colorless solution, available as single-patient-use prefilled delivery device (pen) in the following package size: 560 mcg/2.24 mL (250 mcg/mL) [intended to deliver 28 daily doses of 20 mcg] NDC 0002-9678-01 (MS8400).

Description

FORTEO is indicated: For the treatment of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis at high risk for fracture (defined herein as having a history of osteoporotic fracture or multiple risk factors for fracture) or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy. In postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, FORTEO reduces the risk of vertebral and nonvertebral fractures. To increase bone mass in men with primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis at high risk for fracture or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy. For the treatment of men and women with osteoporosis associated with sustained systemic glucocorticoid therapy (daily dosage equivalent to 5 mg or greater of prednisone) at high risk for fracture or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy.

Section 42229-5

Hypercalcemia

FORTEO has not been studied in patients with pre-existing hypercalcemia. FORTEO may cause hypercalcemia and may exacerbate hypercalcemia in patients with pre-existing hypercalcemia [see Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.3)]. Avoid FORTEO in patients known to have an underlying hypercalcemic disorder, such as primary hyperparathyroidism.

Section 42231-1

This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Revised: 11/2020

MEDICATION GUIDE

FORTEO ® (for-TAY-o)

teriparatide injection

for subcutaneous use
Read this Medication Guide before you start using FORTEO and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. Also, read the User Manual that comes with the FORTEO delivery device (pen) for information on how to use the device to inject your medicine the right way. This Medication Guide does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider about your medical condition or your treatment.

What is the most important information I should know about FORTEO?

Possible bone cancer. During drug testing, the medicine in FORTEO caused some rats to develop a bone cancer called osteosarcoma. Studies in people have not shown that FORTEO increases your chance of getting osteosarcoma. There is little information about the chance of getting osteosarcoma in patients using FORTEO beyond 2 years.

What is FORTEO?

FORTEO is a prescription medicine used to:

  • treat postmenopausal women who have osteoporosis who are at high risk for having broken bones (fractures) or who cannot use other osteoporosis treatments. FORTEO can lessen the chance of broken bones (fractures) in the spine and other bones in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.
  • increase the bone mass in men with primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis who are at high risk for having broken bones (fractures) or who cannot use other osteoporosis treatments.
  • treat both men and women with osteoporosis due to use of glucocorticoid medicines, such as prednisone, for several months, who are at high risk for having broken bones (fractures) or who cannot use other osteoporosis treatments.

It is not known if FORTEO is safe and effective in children.

FORTEO should not be used in children and young adults whose bones are still growing.
Who should not use FORTEO?

Do not use FORTEO if you:

  • are allergic to any of the ingredients in FORTEO. See the end of this Medication Guide for a complete list of the ingredients in FORTEO.

Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction of FORTEO may include swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat that may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing. Call your healthcare provider right away or get emergency medical help if you get any of these symptoms.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before using FORTEO?

Before you use FORTEO, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have a certain bone disease called Paget's disease or other bone disease.
  • have bone cancer or have had a history of bone cancer.
  • are a young adult whose bones are still growing.
  • have had radiation therapy.
  • are affected with a condition that runs in your family that can increase your chance of getting cancer in your bones.
  • have or have had too much calcium in your blood (hypercalcemia).
  • have or have had a skin condition with painful sores or wounds caused by too much calcium.
  • have or have had kidney stones.
  • take medicines that contain digoxin.
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if FORTEO will harm your unborn baby.
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if FORTEO passes into your breastmilk. You should not breastfeed while taking FORTEO.
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.
How should I use FORTEO?

  • Read the detailed Instructions for Use (User Manual) included with your FORTEO delivery device.
  • Use FORTEO exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to. Your healthcare provider will tell you how much FORTEO to use and when to use it.
  • Before you try to inject FORTEO yourself, a healthcare provider should teach you how to use the FORTEO delivery device to give your injection the right way.
  • Inject FORTEO 1 time each day in your thigh or abdomen (lower stomach area). Do not inject into a vein or a muscle. Talk to a healthcare provider about how to rotate injection sites.
  • The FORTEO delivery device has enough medicine for 28 days. It is set to give a 20-microgram dose of medicine each day. Do not inject all the medicine in the FORTEO delivery device at any one time.
  • Do not transfer the medicine from the FORTEO delivery device to a syringe. This can result in taking the wrong dose of FORTEO. If you do not have pen needles to use with your FORTEO delivery device, talk with your healthcare provider.
  • FORTEO should look clear and colorless. Do not use FORTEO if it has particles in it, or if it is cloudy or colored.
  • Inject FORTEO right away after you take the delivery device out of the refrigerator.
  • After each use, safely remove the needle, recap the delivery device, and put it back in the refrigerator right away.
  • When you inject the first few doses of FORTEO, make sure you are in a place where you can sit or lie down right away in case you feel dizzy or have an abnormal heartbeat after the injection.
  • Do not take more than 1 injection in the same day.
  • Do not share your FORTEO delivery device with other people.
  • If you take more FORTEO than prescribed, call your healthcare provider. If you take too much FORTEO, you may have nausea, vomiting, weakness, or dizziness.
  • You should not use FORTEO for more than 2 years over your lifetime unless your healthcare provider finds that you need longer treatment because you have a high chance of breaking your bones.
If your healthcare provider recommends calcium and vitamin D supplements, you can take them at the same time you take FORTEO.
What are the possible side effects of FORTEO?

FORTEO may cause serious side effects including:

  • See “ What is the most important information I should know about FORTEO?
  • Bone cancer (osteosarcoma): Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have pain in your bones, pain in any areas of your body that does not go away, or any new or unusual lumps or swelling under your skin that is tender to touch.
  • Increased calcium in your blood. Tell your healthcare provider if you have nausea, vomiting, constipation, low energy, or muscle weakness. These may be signs there is too much calcium in your blood.
  • Worsening of your kidney stones. If you have or have had kidney stones your healthcare provider may check the calcium levels in your urine while you use FORTEO to see if there is worsening of this condition.
  • Decrease in blood pressure when you change positions. Some people may feel dizzy, get a fast heartbeat, or feel light-headed right after the first few doses of FORTEO. This usually happens within 4 hours of taking FORTEO and goes away within a few hours. For the first few doses, give your injections of FORTEO in a place where you can sit or lie down right away if you get these symptoms. If your symptoms get worse or do not go away, contact your healthcare provider before you continue using FORTEO.
The most common side effects of FORTEO include:

  • pain
  • nausea
  • joint aches
These are not all the possible side effects of FORTEO. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
How should I store FORTEO?

  • Store FORTEO in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) until ready to use. Use FORTEO right away after you remove it from the refrigerator.
  • Do not freeze FORTEO. Do not use FORTEO if it has been frozen.
  • Throw away the FORTEO delivery device after 28 days even if it has medicine in it (see the User Manual).
  • Do not use FORTEO after the expiration date printed on the delivery device and packaging.
  • Recap FORTEO when not in use to protect it from physical damage and light.
Keep FORTEO and all medicines out of the reach of children.
General information about the safe and effective use of FORTEO.

Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use FORTEO for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give FORTEO to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them.

You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about FORTEO that is written for health professionals.
What are the ingredients in FORTEO?

Active ingredient: teriparatide

Inactive ingredients: glacial acetic acid, sodium acetate (anhydrous), mannitol, metacresol, and water for injection. In addition, hydrochloric acid solution 10% and/or sodium hydroxide solution 10% may have been added to adjust the product to pH 4.
For more information, go to www.FORTEO.com or call Lilly at 1-866-436-7836.

Marketed by: Lilly USA, LLC, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA

Copyright © 2002, 2020, Eli Lilly and Company. All rights reserved.

FOR-0003-MG-20201116
Section 51945-4

PACKAGE LABEL – FORTEO 20 mcg per dose, 2.24 mL

Do NOT transfer contents to a syringe

ATTENTION PHARMACIST: Medication Guide and device User Manual for patient inside carton

NDC 0002-8400-01

MS8400

FORTEO®

teriparatide injection

20 mcg per dose (given once daily subcutaneously)

Each single-patient-use prefilled pen will deliver 28 subcutaneous doses.

560 mcg/ 2.24 mL (250 mcg/mL)

For Single-Patient-Use Only

REFRIGERATE / DO NOT FREEZE

For subcutaneous use / Rx only

Needles not included

Becton, Dickinson and Company pen needles are recommended for use with this device

www.forteo.com

Lilly

Section 59845-8

FORTEO® (for-TAY-o)

teriparatide injection

User Manual

Important: First read the Medication Guide that comes inside your FORTEO carton.

Before you use your new FORTEO delivery device, please read the entire front and back of this User Manual completely. Follow the directions carefully when using the FORTEO delivery device.

Do not share your delivery device or needles because infection or disease can be spread from one person to another.

The FORTEO delivery device contains 28 days of medicine. Throw away the FORTEO delivery device 28 days after first use, even if it is not completely empty. Do not inject more than one dose of FORTEO in the same day.

Do not transfer FORTEO to a syringe.

Wash your hands before every injection. Prepare the injection site as your healthcare provider instructed.

1

Pull off white cap
Check the FORTEO delivery device label to make sure you have the right medicine and that it has not expired.



Do not use if the FORTEO delivery device looks damaged, if the medicine in the cartridge is not clear and colorless, or if it has particles in it.
2

Attach new

needle
Pull off paper

tab.
Push needle straight

onto medicine cartridge.
Screw on needle clockwise

until firmly attached.
Pull off large needle cover and save it.
3

Set

dose
Pull out black injection

button until it stops.



If you cannot pull out the

black injection button see Troubleshooting, Problem E,

on back page.
Check to make sure red

stripe shows.
Pull off small needle protector and throw away.
4

Inject dose
Gently hold a fold of skin on your thigh or abdomen and insert needle straight

into skin.
Push in black injection button until

it stops. Hold it in and count to 5

slowly. You must wait until the count of 5 to make sure you receive the correct dose. Then pull the needle from skin.
IMPORTANT
5

Confirm

dose
After completing the injection:

Once the needle is removed from the skin, take your thumb off the black injection button. Check to make sure the black injection button is all the way in. If the yellow shaft does not show, you have finished the injection steps the right way.
You should NOT see any of the yellow shaft. If you do and have already injected the medicine, do not inject yourself a second time on the same day. Instead, you MUST reset the FORTEO delivery device (see Troubleshooting, Problem A, on back page).
6

Remove needle
Put large needle

cover on needle.

Do not try to put the needle cover back

on with your hands.
Unscrew the covered needle all the way by

giving the large needle

cover 3 to 5 counter-clockwise turns.
Pull off needle

and throw away in a

puncture-resistant

container.
Push white cap back

on. Right after use, place FORTEO delivery device in the refrigerator.

For more information, or if you have any questions, turn to the back of this page.

FORTEO® (for-TAY-o)

teriparatide injection

Troubleshooting
Problem Solution

A. The yellow shaft is still showing

after I push in the black injection

button. How do I reset my FORTEO

delivery device?



To reset the FORTEO delivery device, follow the steps below.

  • If you have already injected, DO NOT inject yourself a second time on the same day.
  • Remove the needle.
  • Attach a new needle, pull off the large needle cover and save it.
  • Pull out the black injection button until it stops. Check to make sure the red stripe shows.
  • Pull off the small needle protector and throw away.
  • Point the needle down into an empty container. Push in the black injection button until it stops. Hold it in and slowly count to five. You may see a small stream or drop of fluid. When you have finished, the black injection button should be all the way in.
  • If you still see the yellow shaft showing, contact Eli Lilly and Company (see Contact Information below) or your healthcare provider.
  • Put the large needle cover on needle. Unscrew the needle all the way by giving the needle cover 3 to 5 counter-clockwise turns. Pull off the covered needle and throw away as instructed by your healthcare provider. Push the white cap back on, and put your FORTEO delivery device in the refrigerator.

You can prevent this problem by always using a NEW needle for each injection, and by pushing the black injection button all the way in and slowly counting to five.



B. How can I tell if my FORTEO delivery device works?



The black injection button should be all the way in to show that the full dose of medicine has been injected from the FORTEO delivery device.

Use a new needle every time you inject to be sure your FORTEO delivery device will work properly.



C. I see an air bubble in my FORTEO delivery device.



A small air bubble will not affect your dose and it will not harm you. You can continue to take your dose as usual.


D. I cannot get the needle off.







  • Put the large needle cover on the needle.
  • Use the large needle cover to unscrew the needle.
  • Unscrew the needle all the way by giving the large needle cover 3 to 5 counter-clockwise turns.
  • If you still cannot get the needle off, ask someone to help you.

E. What should I do if I have difficulty pulling out the black injection button?



Change to a new FORTEO delivery device to take your dose as instructed by your healthcare provider.



When the black injection button becomes hard to pull out, this means there is not enough medicine in your FORTEO delivery device for another dose. You may still see some medicine left in the cartridge.
Cleaning and Storage
Cleaning Your FORTEO Delivery Device

  • Wipe the outside of the FORTEO delivery device with a damp cloth.
  • Do not place the FORTEO delivery device in water, or wash or clean it with any liquid.

Storing Your FORTEO Delivery Device

  • After each use, refrigerate the FORTEO delivery device right away. Read and follow the instructions in the Medication Guide section “How should I store FORTEO?”.
  • Do not store the FORTEO delivery device with a needle attached. Doing this may cause air bubbles to form in the medicine cartridge.
  • Store the FORTEO delivery device with the white cap on.
  • Do not freeze FORTEO. If the FORTEO delivery device has been frozen, throw the device away and use a new FORTEO delivery device.
  • If the FORTEO delivery device has been left out of the refrigerator, do not throw the delivery device away. Place the delivery device back in the refrigerator and call Eli Lilly and Company at 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979).

Other Important Notes
  • The FORTEO delivery device contains 28 days of medicine.
  • Each device contains additional volume to allow troubleshooting of the device 2 times.
  • Do not transfer FORTEO to a syringe. This may result in you taking the wrong dose of medicine.
  • Read and follow the instructions in the User Manual so that you use your FORTEO delivery device the right way.
  • Check the FORTEO delivery device label to make sure you have the right medicine and that it has not expired.
  • Do not use the FORTEO delivery device if it looks damaged. Look at the FORTEO medicine in the cartridge. If the medicine is not clear and colorless, or if it has particles, do not use it. Call Eli Lilly and Company if you notice any of these (see Contact Information ).
  • Use a new needle for each injection.
  • During injection, you may hear one or more clicks – this is normal.
  • The FORTEO delivery device is not recommended for use by the blind or by those who have vision problems without help from a person trained in the proper use of the device.
  • Keep your FORTEO delivery device and needles out of the reach of children.

Disposal of Pen Needles and Delivery Device
Disposal of Pen Needles and the FORTEO Delivery Device

  • Before throwing away the FORTEO delivery device, be sure to remove the pen needle.
  • Throw away your FORTEO delivery device and used needles as instructed by your healthcare provider, local or state laws, or institutional policies.

Dispose of the FORTEO delivery device 28 days after first use. 1st use date ______ / ______ / ______



Throw away after ______ / ______ / ______

Contact Information

If you have questions or need help with your FORTEO delivery device, contact Eli Lilly and Company at 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979) or your healthcare provider.



For more information about FORTEO, go to www.FORTEO.com.




Marketed by: Lilly USA, LLC

Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA





FORTEO is a registered trademark of Eli Lilly and Company.

® Registered trademarks owned by Eli Lilly and Company; used under license.



Copyright © 2008, 2025, Eli Lilly and Company. All rights reserved.



Literature revised Jun 03, 2025

FOR-0004-IFU-20250603

7.1 Digoxin

Sporadic case reports have suggested that hypercalcemia may predispose patients to digitalis toxicity. FORTEO may transiently increase serum calcium. Consider the potential onset of signs and symptoms of digitalis toxicity when FORTEO is used in patients receiving digoxin [see Warnings and Precaution (5.5) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

10 Overdosage

In postmarketing spontaneous reports, there have been cases of medication errors in which the entire contents (up to 800 mcg) (40 times the recommended dose) of the FORTEO prefilled delivery device (pen) have been administered as a single dose. Transient events reported have included nausea, weakness/lethargy and hypotension. No fatalities associated with overdose have been reported. Additional signs, symptoms, and complications of FORTEO overdosage may include a delayed hypercalcemic effect, vomiting, dizziness, and headache.

11 Description

FORTEO (teriparatide injection) is a recombinant human parathyroid hormone analog (PTH 1-34). It has an identical sequence to the 34 N-terminal amino acids (the biologically active region) of the 84-amino acid human parathyroid hormone.

The molecular formula of teriparatide is C181H291N55O51S2 and molecular weight is 4117.8 daltons. Its amino acid sequence is shown below:

Teriparatide is manufactured using a strain of Escherichia coli modified by recombinant DNA technology.

FORTEO is supplied as a sterile, colorless, clear, isotonic solution in a glass cartridge which is pre-assembled into a single-patient-use delivery device (pen) for subcutaneous injection. Each delivery device (pen) is filled with volume to allow delivery of 2.24 mL. Each mL contains 250 mcg of teriparatide (as a free base), 0.41 mg of glacial acetic acid, 0.1 mg of sodium acetate (anhydrous), 45.4 mg of mannitol, 3 mg of Metacresol, and Water for Injection. In addition, hydrochloric acid solution 10% and/or sodium hydroxide solution 10% may have been added to adjust the pH to 4.

Each prefilled delivery device (pen) delivers 20 mcg of teriparatide per dose for up to 28 days. Each device contains additional volume to allow troubleshooting of the device 2 times.

5.1 Osteosarcoma

An increase in the incidence of osteosarcoma (a malignant bone tumor) was observed in male and female rats treated with teriparatide. Osteosarcoma has been reported in patients treated with FORTEO in the post marketing setting; however, an increased risk of osteosarcoma has not been observed in observational studies in humans. There are limited data assessing the risk of osteosarcoma beyond 2 years of FORTEO use [see Dosage and Administration (2.3), Adverse Reactions (6.3), and Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].

Avoid FORTEO use in patients with (these patients are at increased baseline risk of osteosarcoma):

  • Open epiphyses (pediatric and young adult patients) (FORTEO is not approved in pediatric patients) [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4)].
  • Metabolic bone diseases other than osteoporosis, including Paget's disease of the bone.
  • Bone metastases or a history of skeletal malignancies.
  • Prior external beam or implant radiation therapy involving the skeleton.
  • Hereditary disorders predisposing to osteosarcoma.
16.1 How Supplied

FORTEO (teriparatide injection) is a clear and colorless solution, available as single-patient-use prefilled delivery device (pen) in the following package size:

  • 560 mcg/2.24 mL (250 mcg/mL) [intended to deliver 28 daily doses of 20 mcg] NDC 0002-9678-01 (MS8400).
8.4 Pediatric Use

The safety and effectiveness of FORTEO have not been established in pediatric patients. Pediatric patients are at higher baseline risk of osteosarcoma because of open epiphyses [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

8.5 Geriatric Use

Of the patients who received FORTEO in the osteoporosis trial of 1637 postmenopausal women, 75% were 65 years of age and older and 23% were 75 years of age and older. Of the patients who received FORTEO in the trial of 437 men with primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis, 39% were 65 years of age and over and 13% were 75 years of age and over. Of the 214 patients who received FORTEO in the glucocorticoid induced osteoporosis trial, 28% were 65 years of age and older and 9% were 75 years of age and older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness of FORTEO have been observed between patients 65 years of age and older and younger adult patients.

6.2 Immunogenicity

As with all peptides, there is potential for immunogenicity. The detection of antibody formation is highly dependent on the sensitivity and specificity of the assay. Additionally, the observed incidence of antibody (including neutralizing antibody) positivity in an assay may be influenced by several factors, including assay methodology, sample handling, timing of sample collection, concomitant medications, and underlying disease. For these reasons, comparison of the incidence of antibodies in the studies described below with the incidence of antibodies in other studies or to other teriparatide products may be misleading.

In the clinical trial of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis [see Clinical Studies (14.1)], antibodies that cross reacted with teriparatide were detected in 3% of women (15/541) who received FORTEO. Generally, antibodies were first detected following 12 months of treatment and diminished after withdrawal of therapy. There was no evidence of hypersensitivity reactions among these patients. Antibody formation did not appear to have effects on serum calcium, or on bone mineral density (BMD) response.

4 Contraindications

FORTEO is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to teriparatide or to any of its excipients. Hypersensitivity reactions have included angioedema and anaphylaxis [see Adverse Reactions (6.3)].

6 Adverse Reactions

Most common adverse reactions (>10%) include: arthralgia, pain, and nausea (6.1)

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Eli Lilly and Company at 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch

7 Drug Interactions

Digoxin: Transient hypercalcemia may predispose patients to digitalis toxicity (5.5, 7.1)

8.7 Renal Impairment

In 5 patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl<30 mL/minute), the AUC and T1/2 of teriparatide were increased by 73% and 77%, respectively. Maximum serum concentration of teriparatide was not increased. It is unknown whether FORTEO alters the underlying metabolic bone disease seen in chronic renal impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

13.2 Animal Toxicology

In single-dose rodent studies using subcutaneous injection of teriparatide, no mortality was seen in rats given doses of 1000 mcg/kg (540 times the human dose based on surface area, mcg/m2) or in mice given 10,000 mcg/kg (2700 times the human dose based on surface area, mcg/m2).

In a long-term study, skeletally mature ovariectomized female monkeys (N=30 per treatment group) were given either daily subcutaneous teriparatide injections of 5 mcg/kg or vehicle. Following the 18-month treatment period, the monkeys were removed from teriparatide treatment and were observed for an additional 3 years. The 5 mcg/kg dose resulted in systemic exposures that were approximately 6 times higher than the systemic exposure observed in humans following a subcutaneous dose of 20 mcg (based on AUC comparison). Bone tumors were not detected by radiographic or histologic evaluation in any monkey in the study.

2.1 Recommended Dosage

The recommended dosage is 20 mcg per dose given subcutaneously once a day. Instruct patients to take supplemental calcium and vitamin D if daily dietary intake is inadequate.

8.6 Hepatic Impairment

No studies have been performed in patients with hepatic impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

1 Indications and Usage

FORTEO is indicated:

  • For the treatment of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis at high risk for fracture (defined herein as having a history of osteoporotic fracture or multiple risk factors for fracture) or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy. In postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, FORTEO reduces the risk of vertebral and nonvertebral fractures.
  • To increase bone mass in men with primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis at high risk for fracture or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy.
  • For the treatment of men and women with osteoporosis associated with sustained systemic glucocorticoid therapy (daily dosage equivalent to 5 mg or greater of prednisone) at high risk for fracture or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy.
12.1 Mechanism of Action

Endogenous 84-amino acid parathyroid hormone (PTH) is the primary regulator of calcium and phosphate metabolism in bone and kidney. Physiological actions of PTH include regulation of bone metabolism, renal tubular reabsorption of calcium and phosphate, and intestinal calcium absorption. The biological actions of PTH and teriparatide are mediated through binding to specific high-affinity cell-surface receptors. Teriparatide and the 34 N-terminal amino acids of PTH bind to these receptors with the same affinity and have the same physiological actions on bone and kidney. Teriparatide is not expected to accumulate in bone or other tissues.

The skeletal effects of teriparatide depend upon the pattern of systemic exposure. Once-daily administration of teriparatide stimulates new bone formation on trabecular and cortical (periosteal and/or endosteal) bone surfaces by preferential stimulation of osteoblastic activity over osteoclastic activity. In monkey studies, teriparatide improved trabecular microarchitecture and increased bone mass and strength by stimulating new bone formation in both cancellous and cortical bone. In humans, the anabolic effects of teriparatide manifest as an increase in skeletal mass, an increase in markers of bone formation and resorption, and an increase in bone strength. By contrast, continuous excess of endogenous PTH, as occurs in hyperparathyroidism, may be detrimental to the skeleton because bone resorption may be stimulated more than bone formation.

5.3 Risk of Urolithiasis

In clinical trials, the frequency of urolithiasis was similar in patients treated with FORTEO and patients treated with placebo. However, FORTEO has not been studied in patients with active urolithiasis. If FORTEO-treated patients have pre-existing hypercalciuria or suspected/known active urolithiasis, consider measuring urinary calcium excretion. Consider the risks and benefits of use in patients with active or recent urolithiasis because of the potential to exacerbate this condition.

16.2 Storage and Handling
  • Store FORTEO under refrigeration at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) at all times except when administering the product.
  • Recap the delivery device (pen) when not in use to protect the cartridge from physical damage and light.
  • When using FORTEO, minimize the time out of the refrigerator; deliver the dose immediately following removal from the refrigerator.
  • Do not freeze. Do not use FORTEO if it has been frozen.
  • Throw away the device 28 days after first use.
5 Warnings and Precautions
  • Osteosarcoma: Avoid use in patients with increased risk of osteosarcoma including patients with open epiphyses, metabolic bone diseases including Paget's disease, bone metastases or history of skeletal malignancies, prior external beam or implant radiation therapy involving the skeleton, and hereditary disorders predisposing to osteosarcoma. (5.1)
  • Hypercalcemia and Cutaneous Calcification: Avoid in patients known to have an underlying hypercalcemic disorder. Discontinue in patients developing worsening of previously stable cutaneous calcification. (5.2)
  • Risk of Urolithiasis: Consider the risk/benefit in patients with active or recent urolithiasis because of risk of exacerbation (5.3)
  • Orthostatic Hypotension: Transient orthostatic hypotension may occur with initial doses of FORTEO (5.4)
2 Dosage and Administration
  • Recommended dosage is 20 mcg subcutaneously once a day (2.1)
  • Consider supplemental calcium and Vitamin D based on individual patient needs (2.1)
  • Administer as a subcutaneous injection into the thigh or abdominal region (2.2)
  • Administer initially under circumstances in which the patient can sit or lie down if symptoms of orthostatic hypotension occur (2.2)
  • Use of FORTEO for more than 2 years during a patient's lifetime should only be considered if a patient remains at or has returned to having a high risk for fracture (2.3)
5.4 Orthostatic Hypotension

FORTEO should be administered initially under circumstances in which the patient can sit or lie down if symptoms of orthostatic hypotension occur. In short-term clinical pharmacology studies of FORTEO in healthy volunteers, transient episodes of symptomatic orthostatic hypotension were observed in 5% of volunteers. Typically, these events began within 4 hours of dosing and resolved (without treatment) within a few minutes to a few hours. When transient orthostatic hypotension occurred, it happened within the first several doses, it was relieved by placing the person in a reclining position, and it did not preclude continued treatment.

3 Dosage Forms and Strengths

Injection: 560 mcg/2.24 mL (250 mcg/mL) clear, colorless solution in a single-patient-use prefilled delivery device (pen) intended to deliver 28 daily doses of 20 mcg.

5.5 Risk of Digoxin Toxicity

Hypercalcemia may predispose patients to digitalis toxicity because FORTEO transiently increases serum calcium. Consider the potential onset of signs and symptoms of digitalis toxicity when FORTEO is used in patients receiving digoxin [see Drug Interactions (7.1) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

8 Use in Specific Populations
  • Pregnancy: Consider discontinuing when pregnancy is recognized (8.1)
  • Lactation: Breastfeeding is not recommended (8.2)
  • Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness not established. Avoid use due to increased baseline risk of osteosarcoma (5.1, 8.4)
6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical studies of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical studies of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

2.2 Administration Instructions
  • Administer FORTEO as a subcutaneous injection into the thigh or abdominal region. FORTEO is not approved for intravenous or intramuscular use.
  • FORTEO should be administered initially under circumstances in which the patient can sit or lie down if symptoms of orthostatic hypotension occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
  • Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration (FORTEO is a clear and colorless liquid). Do not use if solid particles appear or if the solution is cloudy or colored.
  • Patients and/or caregivers who administer FORTEO should receive appropriate training and instruction on the proper use of the FORTEO prefilled delivery device (pen) from a qualified health professional.
  • Discard the delivery device 28 days after first use.
17 Patient Counseling Information

Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide and the User Manual) before starting FORTEO and each time the prescription is renewed. Failure to follow the instructions may result in inaccurate dosing.

2.3 Recommended Treatment Duration

Use of FORTEO for more than 2 years during a patient's lifetime should only be considered if a patient remains at or has returned to having a high risk for fracture [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

14.1 Treatment of Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Women

The safety and efficacy of once-daily FORTEO, median exposure of 19 months, were examined in a double-blind, multicenter, placebo-controlled clinical study of 1637 postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. In this study 541 postmenopausal women were treated with 20 mcg FORTEO subcutaneously once daily.

All women received 1000 mg of calcium and at least 400 IU of vitamin D per day. Baseline and endpoint spinal radiographs were evaluated using the semiquantitative scoring. Ninety percent of the women in the study had 1 or more radiographically diagnosed vertebral fractures at baseline. The primary efficacy endpoint was the occurrence of new radiographically diagnosed vertebral fractures defined as changes in the height of previously undeformed vertebrae. Such fractures are not necessarily symptomatic.

14.3 Treatment of Men and Women With Glucocorticoid Induced Osteoporosis

The efficacy of FORTEO for treating glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis was assessed in a randomized, double-blind, active-controlled trial of 428 patients (19% men, 81% women) aged 22 to 89 years (mean 57 years) treated with ≥5 mg/day prednisone or equivalent for a minimum of 3 months. The duration of the trial was 18 months. In the trial 214  patients were treated with FORTEO 20 mcg given subcutaneously once daily. In the FORTEO group, the baseline median glucocorticoid dose was 7.5 mg/day and the baseline median duration of glucocorticoid use was 1.5 years. The mean (SD) baseline lumbar spine BMD was 0.85 ± 0.13 g/cm2 and lumbar spine BMD T-score was –2.5 ± 1 (number of standard deviations below the mean BMD value for healthy adults). A total of 30% of patients had prevalent vertebral fracture(s) and 43% had prior non-vertebral fracture(s). The patients had chronic rheumatologic, respiratory or other diseases that required sustained glucocorticoid therapy. All patients received 1000 mg of calcium plus 800 IU of vitamin D supplementation per day.

Because of differences in mechanism of action (anabolic vs. anti-resorptive) and lack of clarity regarding differences in BMD as an adequate predictor of fracture efficacy, data on the active comparator are not presented.

14.2 Treatment to Increase Bone Mass in Men With Primary Or Hypogonadal Osteoporosis

The safety and efficacy of once-daily FORTEO, median exposure of 10 months, were examined in a double-blind, multicenter, placebo-controlled clinical study of 437 men with either primary (idiopathic) or hypogonadal osteoporosis. In this study, 151 men received 20 mcg of FORTEO given subcutaneously once daily. All men received 1000 mg of calcium and at least 400 IU of vitamin D per day. The primary efficacy endpoint was change in lumbar spine BMD.

FORTEO increased lumbar spine BMD in men with primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis. Statistically significant increases were seen at 3 months and continued throughout the treatment period. FORTEO was effective in increasing lumbar spine BMD regardless of age, baseline rate of bone turnover, and baseline BMD. The effects of FORTEO at additional skeletal sites are shown in Table 4.

FORTEO treatment for a median of 10 months increased lumbar spine BMD from baseline in 94% of men treated. Fifty-three percent of patients treated with FORTEO achieved at least a 5% increase in spine BMD, and 14% gained 10% or more.

Table 4: Mean Percent Change in BMD from Baseline to Endpointa in Men with Primary or Hypogonadal Osteoporosis, Treated with FORTEO or Placebo for a Median of 10 Months

a Intent-to-treat analysis, last observation carried forward.

b p<0.001 compared with placebo.

c p<0.05 compared with placebo.

FORTEO

N=151
Placebo

N=147
Lumbar spine BMD 5.9b 0.5
Femoral neck BMD 1.5c 0.3
Total hip BMD 1.2 0.5
Trochanter BMD 1.3 1.1
Intertrochanter BMD 1.2 0.6
Ward's triangle BMD 2.8 1.1
Total body BMD 0.4 -0.4
Distal 1/3 radius BMD -0.5 -0.2
Ultradistal radius BMD -0.5 -0.3

Structured Label Content

Section 42229-5 (42229-5)

Hypercalcemia

FORTEO has not been studied in patients with pre-existing hypercalcemia. FORTEO may cause hypercalcemia and may exacerbate hypercalcemia in patients with pre-existing hypercalcemia [see Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.3)]. Avoid FORTEO in patients known to have an underlying hypercalcemic disorder, such as primary hyperparathyroidism.

Section 42231-1 (42231-1)

This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Revised: 11/2020

MEDICATION GUIDE

FORTEO ® (for-TAY-o)

teriparatide injection

for subcutaneous use
Read this Medication Guide before you start using FORTEO and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. Also, read the User Manual that comes with the FORTEO delivery device (pen) for information on how to use the device to inject your medicine the right way. This Medication Guide does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider about your medical condition or your treatment.

What is the most important information I should know about FORTEO?

Possible bone cancer. During drug testing, the medicine in FORTEO caused some rats to develop a bone cancer called osteosarcoma. Studies in people have not shown that FORTEO increases your chance of getting osteosarcoma. There is little information about the chance of getting osteosarcoma in patients using FORTEO beyond 2 years.

What is FORTEO?

FORTEO is a prescription medicine used to:

  • treat postmenopausal women who have osteoporosis who are at high risk for having broken bones (fractures) or who cannot use other osteoporosis treatments. FORTEO can lessen the chance of broken bones (fractures) in the spine and other bones in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.
  • increase the bone mass in men with primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis who are at high risk for having broken bones (fractures) or who cannot use other osteoporosis treatments.
  • treat both men and women with osteoporosis due to use of glucocorticoid medicines, such as prednisone, for several months, who are at high risk for having broken bones (fractures) or who cannot use other osteoporosis treatments.

It is not known if FORTEO is safe and effective in children.

FORTEO should not be used in children and young adults whose bones are still growing.
Who should not use FORTEO?

Do not use FORTEO if you:

  • are allergic to any of the ingredients in FORTEO. See the end of this Medication Guide for a complete list of the ingredients in FORTEO.

Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction of FORTEO may include swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat that may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing. Call your healthcare provider right away or get emergency medical help if you get any of these symptoms.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before using FORTEO?

Before you use FORTEO, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have a certain bone disease called Paget's disease or other bone disease.
  • have bone cancer or have had a history of bone cancer.
  • are a young adult whose bones are still growing.
  • have had radiation therapy.
  • are affected with a condition that runs in your family that can increase your chance of getting cancer in your bones.
  • have or have had too much calcium in your blood (hypercalcemia).
  • have or have had a skin condition with painful sores or wounds caused by too much calcium.
  • have or have had kidney stones.
  • take medicines that contain digoxin.
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if FORTEO will harm your unborn baby.
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if FORTEO passes into your breastmilk. You should not breastfeed while taking FORTEO.
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.
How should I use FORTEO?

  • Read the detailed Instructions for Use (User Manual) included with your FORTEO delivery device.
  • Use FORTEO exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to. Your healthcare provider will tell you how much FORTEO to use and when to use it.
  • Before you try to inject FORTEO yourself, a healthcare provider should teach you how to use the FORTEO delivery device to give your injection the right way.
  • Inject FORTEO 1 time each day in your thigh or abdomen (lower stomach area). Do not inject into a vein or a muscle. Talk to a healthcare provider about how to rotate injection sites.
  • The FORTEO delivery device has enough medicine for 28 days. It is set to give a 20-microgram dose of medicine each day. Do not inject all the medicine in the FORTEO delivery device at any one time.
  • Do not transfer the medicine from the FORTEO delivery device to a syringe. This can result in taking the wrong dose of FORTEO. If you do not have pen needles to use with your FORTEO delivery device, talk with your healthcare provider.
  • FORTEO should look clear and colorless. Do not use FORTEO if it has particles in it, or if it is cloudy or colored.
  • Inject FORTEO right away after you take the delivery device out of the refrigerator.
  • After each use, safely remove the needle, recap the delivery device, and put it back in the refrigerator right away.
  • When you inject the first few doses of FORTEO, make sure you are in a place where you can sit or lie down right away in case you feel dizzy or have an abnormal heartbeat after the injection.
  • Do not take more than 1 injection in the same day.
  • Do not share your FORTEO delivery device with other people.
  • If you take more FORTEO than prescribed, call your healthcare provider. If you take too much FORTEO, you may have nausea, vomiting, weakness, or dizziness.
  • You should not use FORTEO for more than 2 years over your lifetime unless your healthcare provider finds that you need longer treatment because you have a high chance of breaking your bones.
If your healthcare provider recommends calcium and vitamin D supplements, you can take them at the same time you take FORTEO.
What are the possible side effects of FORTEO?

FORTEO may cause serious side effects including:

  • See “ What is the most important information I should know about FORTEO?
  • Bone cancer (osteosarcoma): Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have pain in your bones, pain in any areas of your body that does not go away, or any new or unusual lumps or swelling under your skin that is tender to touch.
  • Increased calcium in your blood. Tell your healthcare provider if you have nausea, vomiting, constipation, low energy, or muscle weakness. These may be signs there is too much calcium in your blood.
  • Worsening of your kidney stones. If you have or have had kidney stones your healthcare provider may check the calcium levels in your urine while you use FORTEO to see if there is worsening of this condition.
  • Decrease in blood pressure when you change positions. Some people may feel dizzy, get a fast heartbeat, or feel light-headed right after the first few doses of FORTEO. This usually happens within 4 hours of taking FORTEO and goes away within a few hours. For the first few doses, give your injections of FORTEO in a place where you can sit or lie down right away if you get these symptoms. If your symptoms get worse or do not go away, contact your healthcare provider before you continue using FORTEO.
The most common side effects of FORTEO include:

  • pain
  • nausea
  • joint aches
These are not all the possible side effects of FORTEO. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
How should I store FORTEO?

  • Store FORTEO in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) until ready to use. Use FORTEO right away after you remove it from the refrigerator.
  • Do not freeze FORTEO. Do not use FORTEO if it has been frozen.
  • Throw away the FORTEO delivery device after 28 days even if it has medicine in it (see the User Manual).
  • Do not use FORTEO after the expiration date printed on the delivery device and packaging.
  • Recap FORTEO when not in use to protect it from physical damage and light.
Keep FORTEO and all medicines out of the reach of children.
General information about the safe and effective use of FORTEO.

Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use FORTEO for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give FORTEO to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them.

You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about FORTEO that is written for health professionals.
What are the ingredients in FORTEO?

Active ingredient: teriparatide

Inactive ingredients: glacial acetic acid, sodium acetate (anhydrous), mannitol, metacresol, and water for injection. In addition, hydrochloric acid solution 10% and/or sodium hydroxide solution 10% may have been added to adjust the product to pH 4.
For more information, go to www.FORTEO.com or call Lilly at 1-866-436-7836.

Marketed by: Lilly USA, LLC, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA

Copyright © 2002, 2020, Eli Lilly and Company. All rights reserved.

FOR-0003-MG-20201116
Section 51945-4 (51945-4)

PACKAGE LABEL – FORTEO 20 mcg per dose, 2.24 mL

Do NOT transfer contents to a syringe

ATTENTION PHARMACIST: Medication Guide and device User Manual for patient inside carton

NDC 0002-8400-01

MS8400

FORTEO®

teriparatide injection

20 mcg per dose (given once daily subcutaneously)

Each single-patient-use prefilled pen will deliver 28 subcutaneous doses.

560 mcg/ 2.24 mL (250 mcg/mL)

For Single-Patient-Use Only

REFRIGERATE / DO NOT FREEZE

For subcutaneous use / Rx only

Needles not included

Becton, Dickinson and Company pen needles are recommended for use with this device

www.forteo.com

Lilly

Section 59845-8 (59845-8)

FORTEO® (for-TAY-o)

teriparatide injection

User Manual

Important: First read the Medication Guide that comes inside your FORTEO carton.

Before you use your new FORTEO delivery device, please read the entire front and back of this User Manual completely. Follow the directions carefully when using the FORTEO delivery device.

Do not share your delivery device or needles because infection or disease can be spread from one person to another.

The FORTEO delivery device contains 28 days of medicine. Throw away the FORTEO delivery device 28 days after first use, even if it is not completely empty. Do not inject more than one dose of FORTEO in the same day.

Do not transfer FORTEO to a syringe.

Wash your hands before every injection. Prepare the injection site as your healthcare provider instructed.

1

Pull off white cap
Check the FORTEO delivery device label to make sure you have the right medicine and that it has not expired.



Do not use if the FORTEO delivery device looks damaged, if the medicine in the cartridge is not clear and colorless, or if it has particles in it.
2

Attach new

needle
Pull off paper

tab.
Push needle straight

onto medicine cartridge.
Screw on needle clockwise

until firmly attached.
Pull off large needle cover and save it.
3

Set

dose
Pull out black injection

button until it stops.



If you cannot pull out the

black injection button see Troubleshooting, Problem E,

on back page.
Check to make sure red

stripe shows.
Pull off small needle protector and throw away.
4

Inject dose
Gently hold a fold of skin on your thigh or abdomen and insert needle straight

into skin.
Push in black injection button until

it stops. Hold it in and count to 5

slowly. You must wait until the count of 5 to make sure you receive the correct dose. Then pull the needle from skin.
IMPORTANT
5

Confirm

dose
After completing the injection:

Once the needle is removed from the skin, take your thumb off the black injection button. Check to make sure the black injection button is all the way in. If the yellow shaft does not show, you have finished the injection steps the right way.
You should NOT see any of the yellow shaft. If you do and have already injected the medicine, do not inject yourself a second time on the same day. Instead, you MUST reset the FORTEO delivery device (see Troubleshooting, Problem A, on back page).
6

Remove needle
Put large needle

cover on needle.

Do not try to put the needle cover back

on with your hands.
Unscrew the covered needle all the way by

giving the large needle

cover 3 to 5 counter-clockwise turns.
Pull off needle

and throw away in a

puncture-resistant

container.
Push white cap back

on. Right after use, place FORTEO delivery device in the refrigerator.

For more information, or if you have any questions, turn to the back of this page.

FORTEO® (for-TAY-o)

teriparatide injection

Troubleshooting
Problem Solution

A. The yellow shaft is still showing

after I push in the black injection

button. How do I reset my FORTEO

delivery device?



To reset the FORTEO delivery device, follow the steps below.

  • If you have already injected, DO NOT inject yourself a second time on the same day.
  • Remove the needle.
  • Attach a new needle, pull off the large needle cover and save it.
  • Pull out the black injection button until it stops. Check to make sure the red stripe shows.
  • Pull off the small needle protector and throw away.
  • Point the needle down into an empty container. Push in the black injection button until it stops. Hold it in and slowly count to five. You may see a small stream or drop of fluid. When you have finished, the black injection button should be all the way in.
  • If you still see the yellow shaft showing, contact Eli Lilly and Company (see Contact Information below) or your healthcare provider.
  • Put the large needle cover on needle. Unscrew the needle all the way by giving the needle cover 3 to 5 counter-clockwise turns. Pull off the covered needle and throw away as instructed by your healthcare provider. Push the white cap back on, and put your FORTEO delivery device in the refrigerator.

You can prevent this problem by always using a NEW needle for each injection, and by pushing the black injection button all the way in and slowly counting to five.



B. How can I tell if my FORTEO delivery device works?



The black injection button should be all the way in to show that the full dose of medicine has been injected from the FORTEO delivery device.

Use a new needle every time you inject to be sure your FORTEO delivery device will work properly.



C. I see an air bubble in my FORTEO delivery device.



A small air bubble will not affect your dose and it will not harm you. You can continue to take your dose as usual.


D. I cannot get the needle off.







  • Put the large needle cover on the needle.
  • Use the large needle cover to unscrew the needle.
  • Unscrew the needle all the way by giving the large needle cover 3 to 5 counter-clockwise turns.
  • If you still cannot get the needle off, ask someone to help you.

E. What should I do if I have difficulty pulling out the black injection button?



Change to a new FORTEO delivery device to take your dose as instructed by your healthcare provider.



When the black injection button becomes hard to pull out, this means there is not enough medicine in your FORTEO delivery device for another dose. You may still see some medicine left in the cartridge.
Cleaning and Storage
Cleaning Your FORTEO Delivery Device

  • Wipe the outside of the FORTEO delivery device with a damp cloth.
  • Do not place the FORTEO delivery device in water, or wash or clean it with any liquid.

Storing Your FORTEO Delivery Device

  • After each use, refrigerate the FORTEO delivery device right away. Read and follow the instructions in the Medication Guide section “How should I store FORTEO?”.
  • Do not store the FORTEO delivery device with a needle attached. Doing this may cause air bubbles to form in the medicine cartridge.
  • Store the FORTEO delivery device with the white cap on.
  • Do not freeze FORTEO. If the FORTEO delivery device has been frozen, throw the device away and use a new FORTEO delivery device.
  • If the FORTEO delivery device has been left out of the refrigerator, do not throw the delivery device away. Place the delivery device back in the refrigerator and call Eli Lilly and Company at 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979).

Other Important Notes
  • The FORTEO delivery device contains 28 days of medicine.
  • Each device contains additional volume to allow troubleshooting of the device 2 times.
  • Do not transfer FORTEO to a syringe. This may result in you taking the wrong dose of medicine.
  • Read and follow the instructions in the User Manual so that you use your FORTEO delivery device the right way.
  • Check the FORTEO delivery device label to make sure you have the right medicine and that it has not expired.
  • Do not use the FORTEO delivery device if it looks damaged. Look at the FORTEO medicine in the cartridge. If the medicine is not clear and colorless, or if it has particles, do not use it. Call Eli Lilly and Company if you notice any of these (see Contact Information ).
  • Use a new needle for each injection.
  • During injection, you may hear one or more clicks – this is normal.
  • The FORTEO delivery device is not recommended for use by the blind or by those who have vision problems without help from a person trained in the proper use of the device.
  • Keep your FORTEO delivery device and needles out of the reach of children.

Disposal of Pen Needles and Delivery Device
Disposal of Pen Needles and the FORTEO Delivery Device

  • Before throwing away the FORTEO delivery device, be sure to remove the pen needle.
  • Throw away your FORTEO delivery device and used needles as instructed by your healthcare provider, local or state laws, or institutional policies.

Dispose of the FORTEO delivery device 28 days after first use. 1st use date ______ / ______ / ______



Throw away after ______ / ______ / ______

Contact Information

If you have questions or need help with your FORTEO delivery device, contact Eli Lilly and Company at 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979) or your healthcare provider.



For more information about FORTEO, go to www.FORTEO.com.




Marketed by: Lilly USA, LLC

Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA





FORTEO is a registered trademark of Eli Lilly and Company.

® Registered trademarks owned by Eli Lilly and Company; used under license.



Copyright © 2008, 2025, Eli Lilly and Company. All rights reserved.



Literature revised Jun 03, 2025

FOR-0004-IFU-20250603

7.1 Digoxin

Sporadic case reports have suggested that hypercalcemia may predispose patients to digitalis toxicity. FORTEO may transiently increase serum calcium. Consider the potential onset of signs and symptoms of digitalis toxicity when FORTEO is used in patients receiving digoxin [see Warnings and Precaution (5.5) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

10 Overdosage (10 OVERDOSAGE)

In postmarketing spontaneous reports, there have been cases of medication errors in which the entire contents (up to 800 mcg) (40 times the recommended dose) of the FORTEO prefilled delivery device (pen) have been administered as a single dose. Transient events reported have included nausea, weakness/lethargy and hypotension. No fatalities associated with overdose have been reported. Additional signs, symptoms, and complications of FORTEO overdosage may include a delayed hypercalcemic effect, vomiting, dizziness, and headache.

11 Description (11 DESCRIPTION)

FORTEO (teriparatide injection) is a recombinant human parathyroid hormone analog (PTH 1-34). It has an identical sequence to the 34 N-terminal amino acids (the biologically active region) of the 84-amino acid human parathyroid hormone.

The molecular formula of teriparatide is C181H291N55O51S2 and molecular weight is 4117.8 daltons. Its amino acid sequence is shown below:

Teriparatide is manufactured using a strain of Escherichia coli modified by recombinant DNA technology.

FORTEO is supplied as a sterile, colorless, clear, isotonic solution in a glass cartridge which is pre-assembled into a single-patient-use delivery device (pen) for subcutaneous injection. Each delivery device (pen) is filled with volume to allow delivery of 2.24 mL. Each mL contains 250 mcg of teriparatide (as a free base), 0.41 mg of glacial acetic acid, 0.1 mg of sodium acetate (anhydrous), 45.4 mg of mannitol, 3 mg of Metacresol, and Water for Injection. In addition, hydrochloric acid solution 10% and/or sodium hydroxide solution 10% may have been added to adjust the pH to 4.

Each prefilled delivery device (pen) delivers 20 mcg of teriparatide per dose for up to 28 days. Each device contains additional volume to allow troubleshooting of the device 2 times.

5.1 Osteosarcoma

An increase in the incidence of osteosarcoma (a malignant bone tumor) was observed in male and female rats treated with teriparatide. Osteosarcoma has been reported in patients treated with FORTEO in the post marketing setting; however, an increased risk of osteosarcoma has not been observed in observational studies in humans. There are limited data assessing the risk of osteosarcoma beyond 2 years of FORTEO use [see Dosage and Administration (2.3), Adverse Reactions (6.3), and Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].

Avoid FORTEO use in patients with (these patients are at increased baseline risk of osteosarcoma):

  • Open epiphyses (pediatric and young adult patients) (FORTEO is not approved in pediatric patients) [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4)].
  • Metabolic bone diseases other than osteoporosis, including Paget's disease of the bone.
  • Bone metastases or a history of skeletal malignancies.
  • Prior external beam or implant radiation therapy involving the skeleton.
  • Hereditary disorders predisposing to osteosarcoma.
16.1 How Supplied

FORTEO (teriparatide injection) is a clear and colorless solution, available as single-patient-use prefilled delivery device (pen) in the following package size:

  • 560 mcg/2.24 mL (250 mcg/mL) [intended to deliver 28 daily doses of 20 mcg] NDC 0002-9678-01 (MS8400).
8.4 Pediatric Use

The safety and effectiveness of FORTEO have not been established in pediatric patients. Pediatric patients are at higher baseline risk of osteosarcoma because of open epiphyses [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

8.5 Geriatric Use

Of the patients who received FORTEO in the osteoporosis trial of 1637 postmenopausal women, 75% were 65 years of age and older and 23% were 75 years of age and older. Of the patients who received FORTEO in the trial of 437 men with primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis, 39% were 65 years of age and over and 13% were 75 years of age and over. Of the 214 patients who received FORTEO in the glucocorticoid induced osteoporosis trial, 28% were 65 years of age and older and 9% were 75 years of age and older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness of FORTEO have been observed between patients 65 years of age and older and younger adult patients.

6.2 Immunogenicity

As with all peptides, there is potential for immunogenicity. The detection of antibody formation is highly dependent on the sensitivity and specificity of the assay. Additionally, the observed incidence of antibody (including neutralizing antibody) positivity in an assay may be influenced by several factors, including assay methodology, sample handling, timing of sample collection, concomitant medications, and underlying disease. For these reasons, comparison of the incidence of antibodies in the studies described below with the incidence of antibodies in other studies or to other teriparatide products may be misleading.

In the clinical trial of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis [see Clinical Studies (14.1)], antibodies that cross reacted with teriparatide were detected in 3% of women (15/541) who received FORTEO. Generally, antibodies were first detected following 12 months of treatment and diminished after withdrawal of therapy. There was no evidence of hypersensitivity reactions among these patients. Antibody formation did not appear to have effects on serum calcium, or on bone mineral density (BMD) response.

4 Contraindications (4 CONTRAINDICATIONS)

FORTEO is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to teriparatide or to any of its excipients. Hypersensitivity reactions have included angioedema and anaphylaxis [see Adverse Reactions (6.3)].

6 Adverse Reactions (6 ADVERSE REACTIONS)

Most common adverse reactions (>10%) include: arthralgia, pain, and nausea (6.1)

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Eli Lilly and Company at 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch

7 Drug Interactions (7 DRUG INTERACTIONS)

Digoxin: Transient hypercalcemia may predispose patients to digitalis toxicity (5.5, 7.1)

8.7 Renal Impairment

In 5 patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl<30 mL/minute), the AUC and T1/2 of teriparatide were increased by 73% and 77%, respectively. Maximum serum concentration of teriparatide was not increased. It is unknown whether FORTEO alters the underlying metabolic bone disease seen in chronic renal impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

13.2 Animal Toxicology

In single-dose rodent studies using subcutaneous injection of teriparatide, no mortality was seen in rats given doses of 1000 mcg/kg (540 times the human dose based on surface area, mcg/m2) or in mice given 10,000 mcg/kg (2700 times the human dose based on surface area, mcg/m2).

In a long-term study, skeletally mature ovariectomized female monkeys (N=30 per treatment group) were given either daily subcutaneous teriparatide injections of 5 mcg/kg or vehicle. Following the 18-month treatment period, the monkeys were removed from teriparatide treatment and were observed for an additional 3 years. The 5 mcg/kg dose resulted in systemic exposures that were approximately 6 times higher than the systemic exposure observed in humans following a subcutaneous dose of 20 mcg (based on AUC comparison). Bone tumors were not detected by radiographic or histologic evaluation in any monkey in the study.

2.1 Recommended Dosage

The recommended dosage is 20 mcg per dose given subcutaneously once a day. Instruct patients to take supplemental calcium and vitamin D if daily dietary intake is inadequate.

8.6 Hepatic Impairment

No studies have been performed in patients with hepatic impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

1 Indications and Usage (1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE)

FORTEO is indicated:

  • For the treatment of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis at high risk for fracture (defined herein as having a history of osteoporotic fracture or multiple risk factors for fracture) or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy. In postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, FORTEO reduces the risk of vertebral and nonvertebral fractures.
  • To increase bone mass in men with primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis at high risk for fracture or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy.
  • For the treatment of men and women with osteoporosis associated with sustained systemic glucocorticoid therapy (daily dosage equivalent to 5 mg or greater of prednisone) at high risk for fracture or who have failed or are intolerant to other available osteoporosis therapy.
12.1 Mechanism of Action

Endogenous 84-amino acid parathyroid hormone (PTH) is the primary regulator of calcium and phosphate metabolism in bone and kidney. Physiological actions of PTH include regulation of bone metabolism, renal tubular reabsorption of calcium and phosphate, and intestinal calcium absorption. The biological actions of PTH and teriparatide are mediated through binding to specific high-affinity cell-surface receptors. Teriparatide and the 34 N-terminal amino acids of PTH bind to these receptors with the same affinity and have the same physiological actions on bone and kidney. Teriparatide is not expected to accumulate in bone or other tissues.

The skeletal effects of teriparatide depend upon the pattern of systemic exposure. Once-daily administration of teriparatide stimulates new bone formation on trabecular and cortical (periosteal and/or endosteal) bone surfaces by preferential stimulation of osteoblastic activity over osteoclastic activity. In monkey studies, teriparatide improved trabecular microarchitecture and increased bone mass and strength by stimulating new bone formation in both cancellous and cortical bone. In humans, the anabolic effects of teriparatide manifest as an increase in skeletal mass, an increase in markers of bone formation and resorption, and an increase in bone strength. By contrast, continuous excess of endogenous PTH, as occurs in hyperparathyroidism, may be detrimental to the skeleton because bone resorption may be stimulated more than bone formation.

5.3 Risk of Urolithiasis

In clinical trials, the frequency of urolithiasis was similar in patients treated with FORTEO and patients treated with placebo. However, FORTEO has not been studied in patients with active urolithiasis. If FORTEO-treated patients have pre-existing hypercalciuria or suspected/known active urolithiasis, consider measuring urinary calcium excretion. Consider the risks and benefits of use in patients with active or recent urolithiasis because of the potential to exacerbate this condition.

16.2 Storage and Handling
  • Store FORTEO under refrigeration at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) at all times except when administering the product.
  • Recap the delivery device (pen) when not in use to protect the cartridge from physical damage and light.
  • When using FORTEO, minimize the time out of the refrigerator; deliver the dose immediately following removal from the refrigerator.
  • Do not freeze. Do not use FORTEO if it has been frozen.
  • Throw away the device 28 days after first use.
5 Warnings and Precautions (5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS)
  • Osteosarcoma: Avoid use in patients with increased risk of osteosarcoma including patients with open epiphyses, metabolic bone diseases including Paget's disease, bone metastases or history of skeletal malignancies, prior external beam or implant radiation therapy involving the skeleton, and hereditary disorders predisposing to osteosarcoma. (5.1)
  • Hypercalcemia and Cutaneous Calcification: Avoid in patients known to have an underlying hypercalcemic disorder. Discontinue in patients developing worsening of previously stable cutaneous calcification. (5.2)
  • Risk of Urolithiasis: Consider the risk/benefit in patients with active or recent urolithiasis because of risk of exacerbation (5.3)
  • Orthostatic Hypotension: Transient orthostatic hypotension may occur with initial doses of FORTEO (5.4)
2 Dosage and Administration (2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION)
  • Recommended dosage is 20 mcg subcutaneously once a day (2.1)
  • Consider supplemental calcium and Vitamin D based on individual patient needs (2.1)
  • Administer as a subcutaneous injection into the thigh or abdominal region (2.2)
  • Administer initially under circumstances in which the patient can sit or lie down if symptoms of orthostatic hypotension occur (2.2)
  • Use of FORTEO for more than 2 years during a patient's lifetime should only be considered if a patient remains at or has returned to having a high risk for fracture (2.3)
5.4 Orthostatic Hypotension

FORTEO should be administered initially under circumstances in which the patient can sit or lie down if symptoms of orthostatic hypotension occur. In short-term clinical pharmacology studies of FORTEO in healthy volunteers, transient episodes of symptomatic orthostatic hypotension were observed in 5% of volunteers. Typically, these events began within 4 hours of dosing and resolved (without treatment) within a few minutes to a few hours. When transient orthostatic hypotension occurred, it happened within the first several doses, it was relieved by placing the person in a reclining position, and it did not preclude continued treatment.

3 Dosage Forms and Strengths (3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS)

Injection: 560 mcg/2.24 mL (250 mcg/mL) clear, colorless solution in a single-patient-use prefilled delivery device (pen) intended to deliver 28 daily doses of 20 mcg.

5.5 Risk of Digoxin Toxicity

Hypercalcemia may predispose patients to digitalis toxicity because FORTEO transiently increases serum calcium. Consider the potential onset of signs and symptoms of digitalis toxicity when FORTEO is used in patients receiving digoxin [see Drug Interactions (7.1) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

8 Use in Specific Populations (8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS)
  • Pregnancy: Consider discontinuing when pregnancy is recognized (8.1)
  • Lactation: Breastfeeding is not recommended (8.2)
  • Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness not established. Avoid use due to increased baseline risk of osteosarcoma (5.1, 8.4)
6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical studies of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical studies of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

2.2 Administration Instructions
  • Administer FORTEO as a subcutaneous injection into the thigh or abdominal region. FORTEO is not approved for intravenous or intramuscular use.
  • FORTEO should be administered initially under circumstances in which the patient can sit or lie down if symptoms of orthostatic hypotension occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
  • Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration (FORTEO is a clear and colorless liquid). Do not use if solid particles appear or if the solution is cloudy or colored.
  • Patients and/or caregivers who administer FORTEO should receive appropriate training and instruction on the proper use of the FORTEO prefilled delivery device (pen) from a qualified health professional.
  • Discard the delivery device 28 days after first use.
17 Patient Counseling Information (17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION)

Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide and the User Manual) before starting FORTEO and each time the prescription is renewed. Failure to follow the instructions may result in inaccurate dosing.

2.3 Recommended Treatment Duration

Use of FORTEO for more than 2 years during a patient's lifetime should only be considered if a patient remains at or has returned to having a high risk for fracture [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

14.1 Treatment of Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Women

The safety and efficacy of once-daily FORTEO, median exposure of 19 months, were examined in a double-blind, multicenter, placebo-controlled clinical study of 1637 postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. In this study 541 postmenopausal women were treated with 20 mcg FORTEO subcutaneously once daily.

All women received 1000 mg of calcium and at least 400 IU of vitamin D per day. Baseline and endpoint spinal radiographs were evaluated using the semiquantitative scoring. Ninety percent of the women in the study had 1 or more radiographically diagnosed vertebral fractures at baseline. The primary efficacy endpoint was the occurrence of new radiographically diagnosed vertebral fractures defined as changes in the height of previously undeformed vertebrae. Such fractures are not necessarily symptomatic.

14.3 Treatment of Men and Women With Glucocorticoid Induced Osteoporosis (14.3 Treatment of Men and Women with Glucocorticoid-Induced Osteoporosis)

The efficacy of FORTEO for treating glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis was assessed in a randomized, double-blind, active-controlled trial of 428 patients (19% men, 81% women) aged 22 to 89 years (mean 57 years) treated with ≥5 mg/day prednisone or equivalent for a minimum of 3 months. The duration of the trial was 18 months. In the trial 214  patients were treated with FORTEO 20 mcg given subcutaneously once daily. In the FORTEO group, the baseline median glucocorticoid dose was 7.5 mg/day and the baseline median duration of glucocorticoid use was 1.5 years. The mean (SD) baseline lumbar spine BMD was 0.85 ± 0.13 g/cm2 and lumbar spine BMD T-score was –2.5 ± 1 (number of standard deviations below the mean BMD value for healthy adults). A total of 30% of patients had prevalent vertebral fracture(s) and 43% had prior non-vertebral fracture(s). The patients had chronic rheumatologic, respiratory or other diseases that required sustained glucocorticoid therapy. All patients received 1000 mg of calcium plus 800 IU of vitamin D supplementation per day.

Because of differences in mechanism of action (anabolic vs. anti-resorptive) and lack of clarity regarding differences in BMD as an adequate predictor of fracture efficacy, data on the active comparator are not presented.

14.2 Treatment to Increase Bone Mass in Men With Primary Or Hypogonadal Osteoporosis (14.2 Treatment to Increase Bone Mass in Men with Primary or Hypogonadal Osteoporosis)

The safety and efficacy of once-daily FORTEO, median exposure of 10 months, were examined in a double-blind, multicenter, placebo-controlled clinical study of 437 men with either primary (idiopathic) or hypogonadal osteoporosis. In this study, 151 men received 20 mcg of FORTEO given subcutaneously once daily. All men received 1000 mg of calcium and at least 400 IU of vitamin D per day. The primary efficacy endpoint was change in lumbar spine BMD.

FORTEO increased lumbar spine BMD in men with primary or hypogonadal osteoporosis. Statistically significant increases were seen at 3 months and continued throughout the treatment period. FORTEO was effective in increasing lumbar spine BMD regardless of age, baseline rate of bone turnover, and baseline BMD. The effects of FORTEO at additional skeletal sites are shown in Table 4.

FORTEO treatment for a median of 10 months increased lumbar spine BMD from baseline in 94% of men treated. Fifty-three percent of patients treated with FORTEO achieved at least a 5% increase in spine BMD, and 14% gained 10% or more.

Table 4: Mean Percent Change in BMD from Baseline to Endpointa in Men with Primary or Hypogonadal Osteoporosis, Treated with FORTEO or Placebo for a Median of 10 Months

a Intent-to-treat analysis, last observation carried forward.

b p<0.001 compared with placebo.

c p<0.05 compared with placebo.

FORTEO

N=151
Placebo

N=147
Lumbar spine BMD 5.9b 0.5
Femoral neck BMD 1.5c 0.3
Total hip BMD 1.2 0.5
Trochanter BMD 1.3 1.1
Intertrochanter BMD 1.2 0.6
Ward's triangle BMD 2.8 1.1
Total body BMD 0.4 -0.4
Distal 1/3 radius BMD -0.5 -0.2
Ultradistal radius BMD -0.5 -0.3

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