Forteo (teriparatide) is a medication prescribed for individuals with osteoporosis at high risk of bone fractures. It stimulates new bone formation, unlike many other osteoporosis medications that primarily slow bone loss. Understanding the implications of discontinuing Forteo therapy is important.
Why Forteo Treatment Ends
Forteo treatment typically concludes upon completion of its maximum recommended duration, generally up to two years. This limit is partly due to concerns about a potential osteosarcoma risk observed in animal studies with long-term use, though human trials within two years have not shown an increased risk.
Beyond the recommended duration, other factors can lead to discontinuation. Some individuals may experience challenging side effects, such as dizziness or a rapid heartbeat. A physician might also stop treatment if the patient’s bone health goals have been met or their overall health status changes.
Immediate Changes After Stopping
Upon discontinuing Forteo, patients generally do not experience noticeable immediate changes or withdrawal symptoms. Forteo does not lead to physical dependence, so the body does not react with withdrawal effects or an immediate shift in physical state.
While the active bone-building process stimulated by Forteo ceases upon discontinuation, the new bone formed during treatment remains. There is no sudden loss of the bone mineral density gained. Any discomfort, such as body aches, if experienced, is more likely related to the medication still in the system, as Forteo has been associated with body aches.
Sustaining Bone Health Post-Treatment
After Forteo treatment concludes, the gained bone mineral density (BMD) is not immediately lost, but its maintenance requires continued management. Without subsequent therapeutic intervention, some of the bone density achieved during Forteo therapy may gradually decrease over time.
To preserve the benefits derived from Forteo, follow-up treatment is often recommended. This typically involves transitioning to an antiresorptive medication, such as a bisphosphonate. These medications slow down the natural process of bone breakdown, helping to maintain the bone density Forteo helped build and minimize future fracture risk.
Navigating Your Care After Forteo
Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential before and during the process of discontinuing Forteo. Your doctor will help formulate a comprehensive post-Forteo treatment plan tailored to your individual needs and bone health status. This plan often includes discussions about potential next medications, such as bisphosphonates, to maintain the bone density gained during Forteo therapy.
Continued monitoring of bone density through regular scans, such as DEXA scans, will be an ongoing part of your care. Lifestyle recommendations also play a role in sustaining bone health, encompassing a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and engaging in weight-bearing exercises. Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider will ensure that your bone health is continuously managed and adjusted as needed.