DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Parathyroid Hormone

March 21, 2017

Parathyroid hormone Solution for injection

What is this medicine?

PARATHYROID HORMONE (para THI roid) is used to increase calcium levels in patients with low amounts of parathyroid hormone.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • bone cancer

  • an unusual or allergic reaction parathyroid hormone, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection under the skin of the thigh. You will be taught how to prepare and give this medicine using the Q-Cliq pen. Use exactly as directed. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or healthcare provider to get one.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. This medicine is not approved for use in children.

Overdosage: If you think you've taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

Try not to miss a dose. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. If you miss more than 1 dose contact your health care provider for advice.

What may interact with this medicine?

This medicine may interact with the following medications:

  • alendronate

  • digoxin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checkups. It may be some time before you see the benefit from this medicine. Do not stop taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to. Your doctor may order blood tests or other tests to see how you are doing. Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take.

It is important to get the right amount of calcium and vitamin D while you are taking this medicine. Your doctor will tell you how much of these supplements you should take. Do not discontinue or change your dose of these dietary supplements except when advised to do so by your health care provider. Discuss the foods you eat and the vitamins you take with your health care professional.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • bone pain

  • numbness or tingling of the skin

  • symptoms of high calcium levels: thirst, severe or continued nausea or vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, fatigue, confusion, or difficulty in concentration

  • symptoms of low calcium levels: muscle spasms or tremor, numbness and tingling in the hands, feet, and face, seizures

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (Report these to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome.):

  • diarrhea

  • headache

  • joint pain

  • mild nausea, vomiting

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

You will be instructed on how to store this medicine. Unopened cartridges for the Q-Cliq pen will be stored in the refrigerator before use. Do not freeze or shake this medicine. Throw away any unused and unopened medicine after the expiration date on the label. Once prepared for use, the Q-Cliq pen with the medication cartridge will be stored in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Protect from heat and light. Any unused medicine cartridges in the Q-Cliq dose pen should be discarded after 14 days.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert