Pharmaceutical companies are constantly trying to outdo each other and to come up with new patentable drugs for diseases that already have existing drug treatments.. A good example of this is teriparatide, or Forteo in the US (Forsteo abroad), a new class of osteoporosis drug known as anabolic agents. This daily injectable drug was approved by the FDA in 2002.
Forteo is an incomplete synthetic or man-made form of the human parathyroid hormone (PTH). You see, human PTH has 84 amino acid residues but teriparatide has only 34. Teriparatide has become the osteoporosis drug of choice mainly for patients who can’t tolerate bisphosphonates, have failed to improve with bisphosphonate therapy, or suffer from extreme bone loss.
As touted in the drug’s insert, Forteo “increases bone mineral density and bone strength.”
Many unanswered questions
But the puzzling catch with Forteo is that the way in which it works remains a mystery. This is openly acknowledged by its maker, pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly and Company. As explained in the drug’s brochure, “the role of PTH in control of bone mass is still not really understood” and that “intermittent spikes of PTH, such as given by daily injection, will cause more increase in bone formation than in bone resorption… This has been shown in rats.”
Unfortunately, what has also been shown in rats is the development of osteosarcoma, a lethal bone cancer caused by an abnormal proliferation of osteoblasts or bone-forming cells. Below, I quote again from Eli Lilly’s pamphlet (http://pi.lilly.com/us/forteo-medguide.pdf):
“During the drug testing process, the medicine in Forteo caused some rats to develop a bone cancer called osteosarcoma. In people, osteosarcoma is a serious but rare cancer. Osteosarcoma has been reported rarely in people who took Forteo. It is not known if people who take Forteo have a higher chance of getting osteosarcoma.”
Because of this serious side effect risk, Forteo is prescribed for a maximum of two years. This is as close as one can get to playing Russian roulette! Who would trade a potential fracture for the awful risk of acquiring a lethal cancer? And as if this were not enough, teriparatide has a long list of nasty side effects such as joint and chest pain, muscle pain and weakness, esophageal problems, nausea, and vomiting. Plus having to inject oneself subcutaneously each and every day is most certainly no picnic.
Exorbitant price tag leads to exorbitant profits
The unanswered questions don’t seem to hamper Forteo’s skyrocketing success. According to drug-industry analysts, an estimated 600,000 prescriptions were written in 2005, which generated more than $350 million in revenues. And in 2008, Eli Lilly reported $778 million in sales. (http://newsroom.lilly.com/ReleaseDetail.cfm?releaseid=362195).
Indeed, the future looks bright for Forteo. As predicted by Pharmacor’s June 2009 osteoporosis report, by 2018 Forteo sales may reach close to the $2 billion mark.
One easy way to explain these numbers is Forteo’s exorbitant price tag. It costs nearly eight times as much as bisphosphonates, running up a tab of about $6,700 a year. That’s a pretty high cost for a drug whose mechanism is not even remotely understood!
Doctors ignore ignorance?
Another puzzling aspect of this drug is that while doctors openly admit their ignorance regarding how it works, they choose to prescribe it anyway.
Dr. Roberto Pacifici, head of the division of endocrinology at Emory University School of Medicine, comments that “…how intermittent treatment (with teriparatide) works has remained a mystery”. (http://whsc.emory.edu/home/news/releases/2009/09/bone-building-hormone.html).
This is clearly a rather unusual and perplexing situation to say the least.
And it sounds like a job for Agent 4T0…
Mission: Impossible
Remember the TV series with this name? I used to be a big fan of Mission: Impossible. Each episode began with secret recorded instructions to the brave agents describing a very complex and often dangerous mission. The agents could decide whether to accept the mission or not. Of course, the fearless members of the Impossible Mission Force (IMF) never walked away and in the end, always succeeded. But here’s what happens when a reluctant osteoporosis drug is the agent chosen for the mission… Read my Mission: Impossible spoof below:
“Good morning, Mr. Paratide. Your mission, should you decide to accept it, comes from the top boss, Big P.”
“You can call me Terry… What is my mission?”
“First, from now on your new name is Agent 4T0. Your mission is to strengthen this patient’s bones and report back to us detailing exactly what you did. And you have to report back to us fast, 4T0. Time is running out.”
“Well, I may be able to strengthen the bones, but I have no idea of what I’m doing! Big P knows that we’ve been trying to find out without success. I need written instructions!”
“You’re the ACTIVE INGREDIENT, for crying out loud! Plus Big P has given you a team of helpers…”
“What… you mean the Inactive Ingredients? I don’t see how glacial acetic acid, sodium acetate, mannitol, metacresol, and hydrochloric acid can help me. They’re INACTIVE, remember?”
“Stop acting like a coward, 4T0. Here’s a little secret for you: metacresol is highly flammable and poisonous – even lethal in the right dose. It can help you solve this mystery if anyone gets in your way. So get creative and solve it once and for all.”
“I’m not a fighter! I’m just a synthetic wannabe, I don’t know what to say…”
“Remember our motto: Ignorance is Strength. You don’t have to know anything… nobody has to know anything… that’s our strength, 4T0. Big P’s survival depends on ignorance. Just invent something and Big P will make sure that everyone will take our word for it.”
“Yes, I know that’s the way we’ve been operating in the past, but now people are waking up real fast…Why me, why me?”
“This tape will self-destruct in five seconds.”
“Oh, nooooooo!”
So there you have it.
Were you prescribed Forteo? Even if you weren’t, please share your experiences, thoughts, and comments with the community below.
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May 8, 2012
I recently learned that I have low blood calcium and was diagnosed at 40 with osteoporosis. Though premenopausal, they put me on Fosamax from 1997- 2005, which did nothing. My doctor, an early tester of Forteo has ignored my other illnesses and focused on the osteoporosis ( 2-point bone density scan), told me yesterday, when I expressed concerns about the drug, that I will die without Forteo. I do not think that he has done any testing to explain what is wrong with my parathyroid, nor is he interested in having me try anything but Forteo, which is sitting in my refrigerator like a lurking monster. In 2007, I had a tumor that was related to over-exposure to radiation removed along with half my thyroid, but this doctor hasn’t touched my neck. I am 55, with a BMI of 20.4 and little fat to inject the Forteo into. This situation has me extremely concerned.
April 24, 2012
In 1997, I had back surgery with a spinal fusion. During this operation, my surgeon found that my bones were soft and were of a person in their 80′s. I was sent to an endocrinologist and he determined I had osteoporosis. I am a male and was only 47 years old. I was given Fosamax and then Actonel but my stomach could not tolerate them. I tried dietary changes but apparently those did not work because in 2004, I sustained a compression fracture in the vertebra above my fusion from coughing during a bad cold. From this my endocrinologist put me on Forteo which I took for 24 months. Upon completion of Forteo my bone density started to rise. It apparently kick started my body. I then was put on Zometa for a year and one half. Then went to Reclast, since I would only have to get a yearly infusion. I have had three of those yearly infusions and at my last Dexa scan my bone density is where I no longer have to take any drugs and can just use diet now. After reading the posts on this site, I have been recalling some joint pains the last several years and have been told these are just some bone spurs which older people get. I will continue to monitor and will follow directions in the Save Our Bones Program.
May 8, 2012
Here goes… My 19 yo son was Dx with IJO at age 12 after he fell and Fx a hip. On Fosamax since. Dexa scans climbed slightly the dropped. After 4 surgeries in hope to delay replacement (due to AVN) he now needs the replacement. Plus Scan results are at a new time low. MD insisted on Someta (No way). So I took him to Boston childrens hospital for info followed today by an appt with the local childrens hospital’s bone health team. It was suggested today to consider Forteo. There are posts here on both sides of the fence. IJO had so far left my son with a life time of issues with his hip,back and feet. Plus now he is in pain. As a parent its a difficult position to decide for your child. Unrelated.. my son also has Aspergers syndrome (autism).
April 13, 2012
Dear Johanita, no I don’t beleive that the Dexa-scan machines would be rigged,however I don’t know who produces them or who subsidises the cost of these machines?but, I do beleive that you don’t always get the same results from each scan machine and, that different machines,makes,and models ect, can produce difference outcomes. Every person has some story as to pathology test result ending up when thoroughly investigated and re-done to be less than perfect showing up as, not as bad as first thought, or more severe than expected, or even “no problem at all everything all ok” so there can be large discrepences in all pathology and testing. For me, I would want multipul testing on all different scans before I would be prepared to make a full and contious decision about my health. ( of which I have done with other health issues and with excellent results,and without medical assistants and against the advice of my MD)
“To each his own” Rhonda
March 14, 2012
I was on the Forteo for four months approximately and it did me no good at all that I could tell. I became very fatigued and finally went to the doctor and found that my calcium level was extremely high. I then got kidney stones and had to deal with that pain. I would not recommend this treatment to anyone. I feel lucky I didn’t end up with bone cancer.
March 3, 2012
Vivian: Hi. Thank you for your serious and light approach to a very interesting topic
March 4, 2012
LIGHT approach???
February 27, 2012
I have been allergic to practically every med I ever took for the last 60 years! I moved to Dallas in 2007 and found a new Dr. I told him of my allergies. Then he promply told me to attend a class where I would be taught to give myself a shot of Forteo every day for 18 months! Needless to say, I did not attend the class and I changed doctors!! I am now 88 and other than painful arthritis in my left hip, I am in excellent health. I am considering prolozone therapy, however. Do you have an opinion about that treatment? Thanks, Margie ^o^
February 23, 2012
I have been along time believer in alternative medical practices that aids and abets the body’s own healing powers.
That and yoga have served me well for many years. I am now 83. About 18 months ago, i was dancing at a wedding, having a wonderful time until a young man came along, and seeing this old lady having such fun, came up and gave me an unexpected twirl that caused me to lose my balance, fall, and break my hip. The ER staff thought this was hilarious, The hip was pinned and since then have been exercising and doing all possible to get rid of any gimping or need for a cane.
My Dr. requested a new bone density test that registered my hip area at a -3.20. My last test ( in a different state) almost 2 years ago had and had read at -1.2. I was told that I was at serious risk and should start Forteo immediately. Scared witless, I reluctantly agreed and started the regime about 6 months ago-hating every minute of it.
Recently, I noticed increased hip pain in the hip area as well as continued redness around the injection so decided to do further research on the drug and fortunately, at this point, came across the SAVE YOUR BONES ad on the internet. Sold me! I no longer take Forteo, but admittedly am still anxious about fracturing another bone. However, I am encouraged now to go for the collards and other alkalizing foods recommended, exercise, pure water and happy thoughts and hope for the best. I am still unclear about the amount and kind of supplements I should add. I am not good at pill taking. Any advise on this? Thanks, Lois
February 11, 2012
I was prescribed forteo two years ago, have 2 more doses to take,i do not want to take them.I have been having severe muscle cramps sporadic in legs.Also hip pain, and jaw tenderness, my latest concern is losing weight and muscle.I turned 65 years old and lost 5 lbs since December of this year.Not trying to loose weight.
I had my Dr to do blood work up on me yesterday.I am frightned because she want to do a lung x ray. Sarcoma show up in the lungs after the bones.
I am dealing with bad back 5 degenerative disks,and hernaiated disc which
i am in physical theraphy dont want the shot in back.Opted to strengthen muscles.Fighting back.
My question is should i stop the forteo,can it be causing the weight loss.Jaw pain, and dizziness which i did not mention to her because it did not seem significant.
I am on aciphex and zantac for low grade barretts but it is being monitored.
i believe that high doses of calcium and vitamin D.And extensive exercise may be as good as putting up with possible sarcoma.I was not told at the time humans were getting this disease only rats.
What to do,i am at loss my Dr has not called me back on blood work.
February 4, 2012
I attended a seminar–learned abour forteo. Being on a limited [very] income, I inquired from supplemental insurance—-impossibly expensive !!!!!! I am 81– and glad to be alive, but still need to eat !!!!
January 28, 2012
I have taken Forteo for 4 months but have decided to stop due to knee and hip pain. Previously I took Fosamax for about 5 years and fell down steps and broke my femur and hip in two places (this was 4 years ago)
I do not believe the Fosamax helped me. I have been fearful of this Forteo causing cancer however the assistant at the Bone Research Center said not to worry — my body not hers!!! I will just try to excerise and eat properly. I am 74 and recovered completelly from the fall so figure that I am not too bad off.
January 25, 2012
My mom is in the hospital because of high calcium levels, low potassium levels and kidney problems. Newest drug she has been taking is forteo. Symptoms she was having loss of appetite, weakness, falls, confusion, tiredness, wobbly knees ect. My guess is that forteo along with high doses of calcium prescribed by her md have made her sick. We take medications for granted and are not careful enough to monitor what we are taking and how we feel. Listen to your body and trust your common sense. If it doesn’t feel right it probably isnt.
March 22, 2012
Shouldn’t it be the doctor’s job to monitor closely if perscribing a medication? It seems as if we should be more and more the experts, but then pay the doctor.
January 26, 2012
I have been taking Forteo for 2 years…just completed the 2 yr program yesterday. The only side affects were very, very minor muscle pain for a few seconds at a time, once or twice a week. NO other side affects. I cant wait for my next bone density test
January 23, 2012
I have now been on Forteo for 3 weeks. I have noticed my heart starts beating fast for a hour or two after the shot. My biggest issue is my feet hurt so bad it’s hard to walk. I thought the side effects were to go away not get worse…after reading all your comments I think I’m going off of the Forteo. Oh and my nose will NOT stop running since I started the shots and now I’ve had 2 nose bleeds…don’t know if it’s due to the shots but not going to chance it…Thanks
January 19, 2012
My husband used the Forteo shots for two years. He has now been off of it for about a year and a half. It helped him build up the bone that he had lost and was quite successful. His problem is now though – starting two years ago he had pain in his ligiments in his arms. Then he started having problems with the ligiments in his feet. All of this was basically unexplained pain – he has been undergoing every test out there and many treatments but no one can get to the bottom of this. He now has developed problems in his shoulder and his shin area on one leg. He has a small bone growth on his right shoulder. No doctor has been able to explain any of this yet. I have been doing all kinds of research into some ligament disease or something but have not, until tonight, began looking into the use of Forteo. I will be bringing this up to his doc to look into further. Thanks for all of the former comments – they have helped.
January 19, 2012
I just finished reading all the letters condemning Forteo.I am 83, years old and have been giving myself Forteo shots daily for 15 months since November 4, 2010. I have had no problems or complaints except early morning leg cramps ,sometimes, until I get out of bed.
They said originally that I have numerous fractures along my spine. I feel great with no other problems.
I don’t know if this is helping, but I am doing it anyway. Hope I am not sorry. Nothing bad yet!!!!!!!!!!!!!
February 7, 2012
Nothing bad for me either. Forteo gave me my life back – and my osteoporosis was diagnosed at the young age of 42. I am so glad I used it! Virtually no side effects and my DEXA scan shows no sign of osteoporosis OR even osteopenia.
See your doctor. Forteo might work for you like it did for me. I’ve been off it for several years and am still doing great.
January 19, 2012
I have been prescribed Forteo and the side effects have been depression, achey body beyond my “normal” Fibro pain, more fatigue than “normal”.
Without insurance it would not be close to affordable.
I have made a decision for me to stop the Forteo and have begun a natural regimen to build bone mass. Feel almost like me again.
January 9, 2012
Forteo is a giant scam perpetrated by the drug company! The prescribing doctor gets a huge payoff for every month his patient is on it! It should be obvious to everyone reading this blog that this drug does absolutely nothing but cause misery for whoever dares to use it! DON’T USE IT PEOPLE! GET YOURSELF TO THE GYM AND START EATING PROPERLY!
February 7, 2012
How dare you suggest that patients needing Forteo simply don’t eat right or exercise!
By the age of 42 my bones were crumbling – crumbling! After every alternative was tried – and failed to increase my bone density, I took Forteo for 18 months. I was in good shape, ate healthily and exercised. The bone density problem was severe regardless. I have always been
In great shape – was raised on non-sugar cereals, love vegetables, gave my children grapefruit for a bedtime snack! No – no sugar on top!! I treat my body with respect – yet the density problem. My osteoporosis was so bad, I had the bones of an 80-year-old – IN MY 40s!!
Eighteen months of Forteo ELIMINATED the osteoporosis…and the intense bone pain that came with it.
See your doctor if you’re considering Forteo. Do NOT let idiots tell you that you simply aren’t eating right or exercising. SHAME on the previous commenter. SHAME!!!!
January 12, 2012
How do you know the doctor gets a “payout”; Does anyone know if this is true????
January 8, 2012
I waited 2 years for Forteo to get out of trials and become available for use because my bone density was so bad and none of the biphosphonates had worked,even though I had taken them for about 7 years! I exercised ate well, took bio identical hormones,gained an exta 10 lbs.as suggested by my Dr.,never smoked nor drank. I was a model patient with rotten bones.
I tried the drug and got so nauseous with the first injection. I tried 2 other times and could not tolerate the drug. I called Eli Lilly and asked if I could take a half dose,thinking it was too large of a dose for a 105 lb person. They said “no”. The only bone growth was seen with this one dosage and chances were,I would get no positive results with a lesser dosage. I finally discontinued the drug. I am now trying the Save our Bones suggestions,with no support from my Dr. I figure I have nothing to loose,but what is left of my bones. I hope it works!
January 8, 2012
I have osteoporosis and multiple vertebra compression fractures, esp L4. I took Forteo by injection for nearly 3 weeks when my body blew up with excess water (edema)and rash. I could not fit into my clothes or shoes. I voluntarily discontinued it. After discontinuing the Forteo, the edema and rash left, except some of the edema settled into my left leg which developed big blisters that progressed into cellulitis and put me in the hospital for ten days. My doc said it couldn’t be a reaction to Forteo because edema was not listed as a side effect in the Eli Lilly literature! (I got myself a new doc). I read up on Eli Lilly’s methods of research trials and was shocked; also, Lilly’s relationship w/FDA. So, I’m now doing more research for myself and am happy to find this site. I’m scheduled for back surgery soon so want to fortify myself for that.
December 19, 2011
I just finished the required 2 years of treatment of Forteo. I didn’t suffer any side effects, but then I had back and some leg pain before I even started the drug so who’s to say. My density tests were so bad the doctor said it was probably the best bet. Well after 2 years my density remains the same. He told me it did help because I didn’t get any worse.
Now I am pondering my next step. The doctor said all the exercise and diet changes will not reverse my condition. I am sure you know his next
recommendation – those horrid shots or pills.
November 10, 2011
I had severe osteoporosis diagnosed in 2001, and my T-score for a man was -5.2. The doctor at the time prescribed Fosamax for a year and then Actonel, which I remained on for 4 years. My t-score never got better than -4.7, so they then put me on Forteo, and after 7 months, my T-score was back to -5.2, and I was having side effects as joint pain. I stopped using this, and had an appointment with an Alt. Medicine MD who prescribed natural products and monitored me month to month. After one year, my bone density increased by 19% and in my second year of natural treatments I had a t-score of -3.8 and I was feeling much, much better. I’m very thankful to that doctor for getting me on the right path to make my bone stronger, and I continue to see him at least 4 times a year. I’m very sorry I ever went on Fosamax/Actonel, but am very glad I stopped Forteo after 7 months…….this is a very dangerous drug and only made me worse. Thank you. Rob D.
February 4, 2012
I live in the Atlanta area and would like to know the name of the doctor who treated your osteoporosis.
Thank you
January 17, 2012
Who was the doctor I need his help
November 23, 2011
I STOPPED FORTEO AFTER 2 TIMES AND THE PRESCRIBING DOCTOR TOLD ME I WAS GOING TO DIE!!!!!SHE IS THE IDIOT AND I NEVER WENT BACK TO HER, AND I NEVER WILL TAKE ANY MEDS FOR MY BONES..FOLLOWING YOUR ADVICE, I CHANGED MY DIET, I HAVE ELIMINATED MEAT, BUT I EAT CHICKEN AND FISH,AND VEGGIES..SUPRISE MY CHOLESTOL WAS FINE AND ALL BLOOD WORK SHOWED UP JUST FINE( FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER) AT ALMOST 83 I AM DELIGHTED WITH EATING WELL, ENJOY THE APPLE AND CUCUMBER FOR LUNCH. GOT BARLEY(HULLED)FLAKES. THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FOR YOUR HELP. AFTER BREAKING MY BACK TWICE IN A YEAR I AM DOUBLY GRATEFUL FOR YOUR GOOD ADVICE…MAXINE
February 7, 2012
I did all that you did and yet, it was not until I took Forteo that my osteoporosis was reversed. And at HALF YOUR AGE. When we are very old, there may not be a significant enough reason to take the drug. But for many people – people with odd, extreme, unusual problems (osteoporosis at 80 is not unusual – BUT IT IS WHEN YOU’RE ONLY 42!), Forteo or other meds can be helpful and life saving.
Every situation is different. I had few side effects on Forteo, if any, and it eliminated my osteoporosis. I had a clear DEXA after using Forteo for 28 months.
There’s nothing wrong with trying the natural route. But don’t try and play doctor to the whole world. What worked for you might not work for everyone.
March 27, 2012
Getting myself to the gym and eating properly will not reverse my osteoporosis to the degree that I need it to, and a host of others who this won’t work for either. I am 25 and have osteoporosis and I’ll look like the Hulk before my bones get better. Be careful what you suggest to people, because you are not a doctor and they will believe it.
Also, no one should be shocked that the medical industry is a business just like everything else.
February 7, 2012
Typo – I was on Forteo for 18 months, not 28.
November 28, 2011
I detect a similar thread here. Are the doctors using a new tactic by intimidating patients who don’t want forteo??
October 30, 2011
I started taking Fortero about 3 months ago and have experience joint pain although I don’t know if it is caused by the medication. Anyone else with this problem????
October 27, 2011
Thanks for continuing to educate us on these drugs.
October 26, 2011
I have been on Forteo for apx. 1 1/2 months. So much hip & back pain. I had to stop for a day or 2 then try & re-start it again. Pain so bad I am using ice packs to reduce pain & walk. I was told by my bone scan & Dr. I have osteoperosis, so decided to try this drug. Hope I can continue it, but not at all sure I can tolerate this pain. At one point I was unable to even bend over. After being asleep one evening , I got out of bed & WOW, could not even stand up. all bent over & holding on to wall & furniture to get around. NOT good!! I may go back to Fosomax, but it didn’t help much either I’m told. Not knowing what to do. OMG what a mess!!!!
November 17, 2011
One week on Forteo and I had severe headaches, worse bone & joint pain. Within 5 months prior to being put on Forteo I was told I had a bone marrow disease. No dr in this town will explore this on Medicare. Between 12/10 & 5/11 I had 3 new fractures, T9, T6, L4 & sudden spurs, bursitis in hips. 3 days after quitting Forteo developed lung problems, can barely breathe. I am scared! I have had fibromyalgia for 40 years, but managed until now. Afraid I am dying. During time of fractures ER never told me I had fractures. I went & got my own records 6/6/11 and nearly passed out info never given me. I just turned 60, this happened when 59 hrs old. Is there help out there?
October 23, 2011
I am taking Forteo and seemingly do not have any side effects but after reading about it, I am scared. It seems to do very little to help the bones and the long term effects are not
known.
February 7, 2012
Don’t be so scared. I took Forteo for 18 months and the worst thing about it was remembering to do it every day (and traveling with it). My osteoporosis is now GONE. I’m very thankful for this as I am only 50 now and am now able tondo things I couldn’t do when I had such bad osteoporosis. Like skiing and skating and not worrying do much about falling down.
The Forteo was nothing compared to a restricted life and the possibility – likelihood – of needing hip replacements or suffering fractures.
October 25, 2011
How long have you been on Forteo with no side effects ?
October 20, 2011
I was prescribed Forteo today because I had a compresion fracture at T-12 recently. After researching the medicine and reading all of these comments I have definitly decided not to take Forteo.
Thank you Vivian and Thank you all for your valued comments !!!!
October 17, 2011
I am 55, have severe osteo, -5.75 and am taking forteo. In the first 3 months, no side effects, now I am having leg and knee pain, which sometimes makes it difficult to walk. My doctor is excited about the forteo, but my mother’s bone dr is not impressed with it, he didn’t say why. The question I ask myself is “is it going to be worth the pain and will it go away after taking it.” Really, how much do they know about forteo?
October 16, 2011
I have been doing the forteo injections since July 2011. My back has become very weak & shakey. I asked my Dr. if he thought forteo
could be causing this. He didn’t think it was.
My legs on the outside below the hip have pain
What do you suggest?
February 7, 2012
How do you know for sure that Forteo is causing the pain?
October 15, 2011
Hi Vivian, I’m a 52 year old male with severe osteoporosis. The doctor put me on Forteo and my body could only tolerate it for one week. I also have Psoriatic Arthritis and Forteo not only increased my inflamation in my body, but also caused severe bone pain as well as severe weakness (I could not even open up our garage door handle when turning it) which was really scarry. I have gotten off Forteo and reported the side effects. I’m back to Calcium and trying to follow somewhat your diet (even though I don’t have your book? but I do research on Google etc. Thank you!
October 9, 2011
I had a broken femur-thank you Fosomax.
After intense physical therapy combined with a bone stimulator,the bone grew back.
If the bone grew with the bone stimulator, isn’t that the same result as using Forteo.
October 6, 2011
Vivian-
I ound this info on Forteo very interesting.
I have been thinking about Prolia. Can you offer some thoughts?
October 6, 2011
I reviewed Prolia in this blog post, Ruth:
http://saveourbones.com/prolia-denosumab-review/
October 6, 2011
Today another study about the synthetic hormone DES came out.by Marilynn Marchione.This was given to women from the 1940′s until 1971 when the US gov’t stopped it’s usage. Now in 2011 they are finding that not only did it affect those women, but their daughters AND sons, and they are now ondering about a third generation.
So about Prolia-Why even consider it? And Forteo? The same why even consider it when no-one knows for sure what the actual results will be. Or do the companies involved not worry because if given to people of a certain age they might be dead anyways within those 70 years it takes to learn the final results.
February 7, 2012
Why consider it? When you have decades of surgeries to look forward to if you don’t take it! When you can’t ski or skate or walk on the ice for fear of fracture. When you’ve tried everything else, including natural remedies. When your osteoporosis pain is so bad you want to die.
There is no one perfect solution. Consider all alternatives.
September 12, 2011
I am 81 yr old. I had hyperthyroidism which caused bone loss. Had surgery and calcium level returned to normal, but bone density test showed osteoporosis. Dr gave me Fosamax, which caused lots of joint pain particularly in the lower jaw. My teeth hurt so bad I went to the dentist who told me there was nothing wrong with my teeth, the pain was from the Fosamax.
My Dr then recommended Reclast. I researched these drugs on the web and the results scared the #$&% out of me. I refused to take any more of these drugs. Ref: “First do no harm”.
I am now trying the natural way and awaiting my next bone scan.
September 6, 2011
I was given Fortero, in its early stages of human use.. Took daily for a period of one year.. At the time i had osteopina ( I was mid 40′s) ..I cannot take oral meds for osteo as the joint pain is unbearable.. My latest dexa was very bad.. again , i was told to take fosomax..I am now 58.. I have been researching and noted ( also mentioned this to my MD) there is a very real link between SSRI (used for depression) and osteoporosis. Something i was on for years..Any of those on here also long term antidepressant users?? Just curious
November 17, 2011
Yes, I believe there is a link. I was on Doxepin for almost 13years and it never worked. Never considered possible connection. Within 3 days of stopping one week of Forteo, I have pneumonia.
November 17, 2011
I have just been cut off this website 4 times. I have something to say about Forteo. It almost killed me.
February 7, 2012
And yet – it saved me. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to osteoporosis. Consider all the alternatives.
September 5, 2011
i took the whole 18 months because i have autoimmune of the liver and take steriods every day of my life. after the shots and 10 years of steriods the scans have barely changed
September 3, 2011
I have good insurance, 4to is willing to cover the rest of the bill, 20%, how generous, not going yo happen, rather break a bone first.
I am 58 year old woman, not a guinea pig.
Bone Cancer, wake up people, do your research.
Going horseback riding now.
Cal., Mag., Vit D,2ooo iu, Vit K, Boron, Phosphorus,Xercise ladies, weights.
I am not a 4to Poster Girl!
September 7, 2011
My world renowned osteo doc wanted me to take it:I became suspicious when the FORTEO company called.Told clerk I wanted to speak to nurse: Forteo had their nurse call who basically told me to read pg 67 re my concern!!
Continued to have more follow up call: they had already checked with MY insurance!
My doc had prescribed it!
Continued to have more calls from them.Received pack of info from them with black box warning!!
How many drugs have that?
Spoke to 2 othopaedic surgeons who weren’t impressed with forteo
Spoke with 3 researchers involved in metabolic bone research!
Not impressed they said.
Checked the references of docs my doc suggested-they are the ones the osteo foundation always quotes!
Final decision: all these docs seem to be doing research and using the patients as their results!
Everyone basically is a guinea pig!
Final decision: fuggedaboudit!!!
August 29, 2011
I was prescribe Forteo and I only lasted 3 weeks because it was making me throw up and gave me major neck and headaches. My friends could tell I was on a major high. I walked around like a zombie. It was the most horrible drug I’ve ever taken.
August 23, 2011
I am so thankful that my doctor told me to increase my exercise (walking for hips)and increase the amount of vitamin D3 that I am taking. He said that it is better to start to rebuild bone if possible than to take osteoporosis drugs. I am 61 years old and taking my bone health into my own hands with my doctor’s blessing. I should mention that I am a veteran and in the VA medical system.
January 27, 2012
I just want to say——–if any of you read the commits from the ones that are taking the drugs osteoporosis are suffering more than the ones that treat their own self with good eating, exercise, and caring about yourself. If I didn’t have my family I would fell like I have nothing to live for, but I do and that is what I do. I have been eating better, trying to exercise more and enjoy not hurting. I decided when I was told I had advanced osteoporosis and advanced scolosis that I wouldn’t that the regular medication and try a healthy way. So far so good !!! But I have to admit I am taking a medication for this: Calcitonin-salmon nosespray. Don’t have any side effects that I can tell. This is a treatment they use to give for pain. I take maybe 3 pills a week but it is when I have been up overdoing. I wouldn’t tell anyone to stop taking their meds and try this or to do that. I am just saying what seems to work for me. I was reading and reading , all of these letter just say how bad Forteo is for them. I believe the Doctors get a cut by writing Rx for these drugs. I know I use to get free samples my doctor had from the drug companies and then they stopped and the medicine went generic. I pray for all of your pain you are going thru and wish I could pray it all away. God Bless you and may you days get better. nannywiz
February 9, 2012
Forteo gave me my life back. What works for one person won’t work for everyone. I tried all the natural stuff for years. I’ve alway been a healthy eater and believed in exercise. I was always in great shape – but severe osteoporosis ruined my life with pain and restriction. Then I finally got Forteo. Took it for 18 months, had no Real side effects and have NO MORE OSTEOPOROSIS!! I don’t even have osteopenia anymore thanks to Forteo.
Forteo works great for many many people. TALK TO YOUR OWN DOCTOR ABOUT THIS!
August 23, 2011
I used Forteo daily for two years and still had more bone loss when I was finished! I have SEVERE osteoporosis…all the docs in the practice said they had never seen such severe bone loss as measured by a Dexascan…I can’t tolerate the oral medications, so Forteo was prescribed. I had high hopes, but two years later, the Dexascan was worse!
February 7, 2012
It is more likely that the Forteo did nothing than that it caused your problem to be worse (if that’s what you’re suggesting). After taking Forteo, my severe osteoporosis was gone. Gone! I changed nothing else during that time and am glad I took the drug.
Now I don’t have to worry about undergoing hip replacements – a far more dangerous procedure than TRYING Forteo.
See your doctor if you think you have osteoporosis. A good doc will have asked you about diet, exercise, supplements, other possible treatments and medical conditions before putting you on Forteo.
August 15, 2011
I have osteoporosis. I had a vitamind deficiency, I think from birth. I always had cavities but still have all my teeth after many root canals and caps. I take vitamind 5000 a day. The Dr prescribed Evista no good/ side effects. I have tried fosamax but Dr thinks Forteo is the answer. After reading these comments (didn’t know about cancer risk) I do not want to try, My mother recently died at 95 after taking fosamax for yers. My sister presently takes Fosamax. She is73 and I am 68. I am looking for toothpaste without chemicals. I have found Edgar Cayce remedies wonderful so will see there for toothpaste. I have taken calcium supplements forever and have been told I have calcium deposits on my brain.
February 7, 2012
Your mother is very fortunate to have lived to the ripe old age of 95. Death at that age is very common, though, even among those who don’t take Forteo.
August 12, 2011
In medicine, there is a saying and it goes like this: First, do no harm.
It seems to me that with all the risks of these medications (i.e., that they could do much harm), doctors would be a bit more cautious in prescribing them. Of course, we all know how drug company representatives push the doctors to prescribe their drugs.
I was on Foreto for nearly 4-1/2 months and felt lousy. Every joint in my body ached, every muscle ached and got weaker by the day, I had an ongoing headache, and soon, I was actually walking in my own home – with a cane! I had reported this to the doctor and at first the nurse claimed it couldn’t be from Forteo because I had taken it for all that time. Well, I finally stopped taking it and guess what? The aches and pains went away within a week of not taking it. This cannot be a coincidence.
I was told I had bad osteoporosis in August of 2008. I was put on Fosomax, then Actonal. These did not totally agree with me, and I was told that they do NOT build bone, only strengthens the bone you already have. Forteo builds bone. Great, except for me it also caused me so much pain and weakness that it nearly drove me crazy! This is a good trade off? This is doing no harm?
These days there’s a medication for everything under the sun. Yes, even erectile dysfunction and low libido. We are awash in a sea of drugs in this country. I am not against all medications, however if the cure is worse than the condition it’s supposed to help, what’s the point?
August 13, 2011
Thank goodness that here are some physicians who truly care for the good outcome of their patients health but it does give pause for thought. Most of my Dr.s push whatever pills are on the market and I feel like a ingrate when I complain and tell them I don’t want to take the drugs. They get indignant adamantly saying I NEED them or my bones will break.
Makes me boiling mad and wish that Congress or whomever would look into investigating value/worth of such drugs against Cancer, etc.
February 7, 2012
The chemicals that DOW and others put into the water stream are doing a lot more damage than Forteo trials.
August 6, 2011
Some time ago I asked about the name of an ideal calcium supplement. Please comment about curent statements that calcium supplements cause serious health conditions.
Thanks
August 3, 2011
I thoroughly enjoyed, and learned a lot by reading the letters and comments. Thank you!
August 3, 2011
Hi
I will never take a prescription drug ever again after my doctor put Mr on naproxen for a prolasped disc
September 3, 2011
Naproxen caused my osteoprosis at a early age of 58
Compression fracture T12
If only i had resarched it 20 years ago,
October 22, 2011
Early age of 58?!
I’m a 30yro Male who’s been fighting and living with osteoporosis and vertibrael fractures yearly since i was 18
February 7, 2012
I wouldn’t hesitate to try Forteo if I were you. How many hip replacement surgeries are you willing to put yourself through?
Forteo worked great for me.
July 30, 2011
I want to know of a natural to build bone density.
July 24, 2011
I have been on forteo for 2 months. I had a fractured vertebre and all the tests proved I had a severe case of osteoporosis. They did a plasty for my fracture. I don’t really know how this will go with the forteo but I haven’t seem to have any side effects that I can recognize as yet. I do experience pain around my waist and lower back. When I lay down in bed at night I experience bad pain at first and then as I relax the pain subsides but if I move or try to lay on my side it hurts. Well I enjoy reading what others are experiencing. I shocked by all this because Im 59 years young and have never had anything like this to ever happen. I’ve always been healthy and then this. Not complaining, just surprised. It could be worst.
February 7, 2012
Search for Forteo success stories. They’re out there and I am proof. It worked great for me!
June 24, 2011
Hi Vivian, this is an excellent article, I was prescribed Forteo two years back, I did my research and decided not to take it…as you said, I am not going to risk to have bone cancer because of the possibility of getting a fracture in the future, maybe will never happen. Besides my osteoporosis problem I have always been a very healthy woman, I am 56 years now…I prefer to live less years than to submitt myself to all these drugs that who knows what can bring me in the future. Keep up the good word educating people, we usually believe what doctors say without questioning and there is a lot of $$$$$$$$$ behind all these drugs.
May 24, 2011
I’ve been on Forteo for four months. I have had an occasional headache, upset stomach, etc., but I cannot say that Forteo caused them. I have also been on an alkaline diet for three months yet find that eating the same foods can cause opposite pH results in my urine tests. My judgement is that there is not enough science to support the alkaline hypothesis and that there may be a psychosomatic effect with those using Forteo.
July 18, 2011
Hi John! I have had osteoperosis for 9 1/2 years. I took fosomax for 9 months and acquird GERD. To this day, I have problems with my vocal cords and voice. For the last 8 1/2 years I have taken a high dose of Calcium Citrate w/Vitamin D. Last week my Osteoperosis Specialist recommened I take Forteo. I am so afraid to to any pharmacutical drugs due to the side effects. I know we are individuals and are affected by drugs in different ways. I wish I knew what to do! Any advise would be appreciated.
February 7, 2012
Ask your doctor.
September 3, 2011
Don’t do it
May 22, 2011
I have been taking forteo since aug 2010 and prev from aug to nov 2009.
stopped because gave me more pain in back and all leg joints, I also have RA and asked if that could effect that condition, they said no.Dex scan was low so decided to try Forteo again, same situation, but kept taking it. I am still having pain and wondering if the drug can grow bone where I don’t want it, my fingers for example. My back is still painful at times, next bone scan is Sept, I have to get off of it then and now fearful of reclast, I have taken fosamax, actinel, daiky, then weekly and then monthly. Have also taken calcitonin nasal spray, all of this for 12 years. Have had 3 fractured vet in back and then bone glue,,,was 5-7, now 5-4, WHERE DO I GO NOW//////. i THINK FORTEO HAS NOT HELPED ME
HELP
KIP
May 12, 2011
I am 59 years old and have severe osteoporosis brought on by a hyperparathyroid ten yers ago. My specialist wants me to start taking Forteo for two years. Because I am still working, it is probable that I could get most of the cost covered. I am still researching and evaluating, but I must say that this drug terrifies me.
May 19, 2011
I was on Forteo for 2 years and was extremely compliant. The only side effect I had was some weight gain at the very first and I have still not gotten it back off. It was approximately 8 pounds. I had my DEXA scan yesterday after having completed the Forteo. I had excellent results, in fact my doctor who is over the Osteoporosis Clinic at a very well known clinic said it was the best results she had ever seen. I had severe osteoporosis and now am considered to have osteopenia. Because I take hormones, I will not go to another osteoporosis drug treatment. I am to go back in one year to reevaulate and take another DEXA scan to see if things are going the same. (she said the hormones I am taking is a bone stabilizer). Please research this and consider taking this drug. I am so pleased that I did, because my doctor said that previouslyI was a big risk for fractures which I had in the past. I am very excited.
February 7, 2012
I agree with you. Forteo helped me immensely. At the age of 42, I had the bones of an 80-year-old. I had good eating and exercise habits. I’ve always had a great shape. I tried natural ways to improve bone density, but the problem was too severe. I also tried calcium and mag supplements. I also tried fosamax. Nothing made any difference – until I took Forteo. After 18 months of shots, my DEXA showed NO sign of osteoporosis or even osteopenia.
Forteo worked great for me.
February 9, 2011
I took foteo for 2 weeks had a 24 hour a day killer headache and exteme bone pain especially in the thigh bones.
February 1, 2011
Dear Vivian,
Thank you very much for your great information, I have learned a lot. I love you very much,I will say like our Queen, Long live Vivian so that many more people you can help.
love,
Juvy