Parathyroid Hormone (1-34) (Human Recombinant), also known as Teriparatide, is a synthetic form of the natural parathyroid hormone (PTH). It consists of the first 34 amino acids of the full-length human parathyroid hormone, which is crucial for its biological activity. This recombinant form is used primarily in the treatment of osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones.
Parathyroid hormone plays a vital role in regulating calcium levels in the blood. It achieves this by stimulating the release of calcium from bones, increasing calcium absorption in the intestines, and promoting calcium reabsorption in the kidneys. The recombinant form, Teriparatide, mimics these actions and is used to stimulate bone formation.
Teriparatide acts on the parathyroid hormone 1 receptor (PTH1R), which is found in bone and kidney tissues. When administered, it stimulates bone remodeling by promoting the activity of osteoblasts (cells responsible for bone formation) over osteoclasts (cells responsible for bone resorption). This leads to an increase in bone mineral density (BMD) and overall bone strength .
Teriparatide is primarily used in the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men at high risk of fractures. It has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of vertebral and non-vertebral fractures by increasing bone mass and improving bone architecture . It is administered as a daily subcutaneous injection.
Clinical trials have demonstrated that Teriparatide is effective in increasing bone mineral density and reducing fracture risk. However, there are concerns about its long-term safety, particularly its potential to cause osteosarcoma (a type of bone cancer) based on studies in rats . Despite these concerns, the benefits of Teriparatide in treating osteoporosis often outweigh the risks, especially in patients with severe osteoporosis .