Connect
← Return to Loss of BMD in hips after taking Forteo or teriparatide?
Discussion
Loss of BMD in hips after taking Forteo or teriparatide?
Osteoporosis & Bone Health | Last Active: Sep 24 1:31am | Replies (95)Comment receiving replies
Good morning Christine. Since I just turned 65 years old, certain drugs are covered by my provincial health care plan (OHIP as I live in Ontario). I qualify for a bio-similar drug to Forteo, called Osnuvo, so I will pay nothing. I could potentially apply to get the brand name, Forteo, but it is unlikely I’d qualify as I haven’t fractured a vertebrae, nor have I tried any other drug that wasn’t effective.
It is my understanding that Osnuvo (made in Quebec as of last year) costs around $560-$700 per month if you have to pay out of pocket. I heard (not verified) that Forteo is around $1200-$1500 per month, but I’m wondering if that price will come down. I’m guessing Forteo had a 20 year patent, and if I’m right that would have expired two years ago. I’m guessing that is why we are seeing bio-similiars out on the market in the past year. Maybe Forteo will lower its prices to compete better, especially since most of their initial research costs are likely already covered? Let me know what you find out! And if you are comfortable, you can always go to Osnuvo.
Replies to "Good morning Christine. Since I just turned 65 years old, certain drugs are covered by my..."
I wanted to add to the conversation regarding product and price. I am in India for an extended period of time and decided to check on my Osteoporosis with the Endocrinologist (great qualifications) here. After reviewing my history and my Dexa, he advised me to take Gemtide injections daily for 2 years and then go back on Fosamax.
It is my understanding that Gemtide is similar to Forteo (synthetic parathyroid hormone). I did some research and am now on my second month with no ill effects thus far. The injection costs Rs 4,000 (approx 40 USD) and the pen comes with 28 doses. The difference in price is mind boggling - I don't believe there is a compromise in quality either.
Connect
Thank you so much, lynn56!
I too am now in Ontario, and will be 73 next week. My G.P. has been slow out of the blocks, in getting my ducks in a row; but am now making progress in getting ready for 18 April.
My paperwork is now in, and I will see the pharmacist on Tuesday. So hopefully, I will get some direction of which medication I will qualify for [we should have answers by then regarding Forteo or the Osnuvo] I was originally told that the Forteo was $4,000/month.
I too have not had any vertebral fractures, but have had many serious chest infections since starting the Prolia, and was on, unsuccessfully other drugs prior to Prolia. My specialists, Rheumatologist and Respirologist both agree that getting off of Prolia is necessary.
I get on a soapbox about insurance companies and government telling doctor's what they can and cannot order ! I am waiting for my specialist to return from holiday so he can order the CTX and P1NP, as the GP cannot order that, only a specialist. So I am hopeful of getting all of this together before the 18th.
Thanks so much for your input.