Teriparatide/Forteo

I’ve been on teriparatide (Forteo) after a bad experience with Prolia, so I’ll just share my experience. First off, your fear is completely understandable given the ONJ + rebound loss — that’s a serious situation. For Forteo, most side effects (if they happen) are usually early and physical: mild dizziness after injection, occasional nausea, or muscle cramps. For me, it mostly settled within the first couple of weeks. On depression and insomnia — they’re listed, but in real-world experience they don’t seem to be common or persistent issues. I was also worried about that, but didn’t notice any meaningful mood or sleep changes. The big difference is that Forteo actually builds bone, which is why it’s often used in severe cases like a -3.6 spine T-score or after Prolia complications. It’s also not associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw. Practical tip: a lot of people take it at night and just sleep through any initial lightheadedness. Overall, it’s one of the main “rebuilding” options doctors use after Prolia-related problems, but it’s still totally valid to be cautious given your history.

I took Teriparatide for the full 2 years and never had any issues at all. I gave myself the shot at night as recommended by the GYN. It just became part of the routine. When I traveled I used a small case with 2 ice packs that kept the Teriparatide cold. I didn’t want to have any interruption during the 2 years of treatment. The results were great.
After I finished the 2 years, I selected Raloxifene as the next treatment. This decision was based on Raloxifene being an estrogen receptor. Now I’m on HRT (6 months) at 69 yrs old. I took me 4 years to convince my GYN. I feel great, sleep well, my skin is improving and I’m less anxious. Hopefully the next scan will show improvements.

I started Forteo 5 Days ago.
I do my injection about a half hour before bedtime and I have not had any problems. Thank the good Lord!

@leeosteo

How has the reclast gone for you?

@leeosteo

I found a functional medicine provider. 77 when I started.

@leeosteo I presented her with the latest research on HRT and bones that I could find when I met with her. I also uploaded the articles to her through the medical portal. You have to be a strong advocate for yourself and state what you will and won’t take. The Mayo Clinic HRT group has lots of links to articles . Also I follow Dr, Mary Claire Haver, Dr. Kelly Casperson, and Dr. Louise Newson. Fantastic women! Dr. Claire Haver and Casperson were instrumental in getting the black box warning off! They have lots of articles posted on their social media accounts and wonderful podcasts to listen to. Hope this helps.

@gravity3 , I had no issues. I started hydrating 3 days prior then the day of and a few days after. I took 500mg Tylenol 2 hours before the infusion, then the same afternoon and bedtime. I did take one more dose the morning after but really didn't need it. The key is hydration.. I think.

@gravity3 ok, thank. Seems like most women 10 yrs past menopause are using functional medical providers for HRT.

@hansens I have Gulf War Syndrome. Lots of gut issues, osteoporosis, malabsorption of nutrients and mineral deficiencies as a result.
In Oct of 2022, concerned my bones weren't getting what they needed, I looked to HRT. I saw my GYNO and she was not happy I was doing it. Tough nuts, it has helped alot with so.many things, sadly.not my.bones so.much, probably too late for them. Now on Forteo after.femur break and titanium rod surgery. Post surgical.knee problems, had a cortisone shot 4 days ago. Not a good idea to do that if on Forteo therapy. I had no idea there would be a problem, can't back out of any of it. Pushing through the pain now.