What is teriparatide primarily used for?

Teriparatide is primarily used as a treatment for osteoporosis and is a synthetic form of parathyroid hormone (PTH). It is specifically designed to stimulate bone formation and increase bone density, which is especially important for patients at high risk of fractures due to osteoporosis. By mimicking the action of natural PTH, teriparatide helps to regulate calcium and phosphate metabolism in the bones, promoting bone growth rather than simply slowing bone loss.

While it is true that teriparatide acts as a recombinant form of PTH (hence its identification as a synthetic hormone), its primary clinical application lies in the treatment of osteoporosis. This makes the context in which it is used crucial—it is not just about its composition but fundamentally about its therapeutic purpose in enhancing bone health and preventing fractures. Therefore, its classification as a recombinant PTH is accurate, but it is specifically highlighted for its role in osteoporosis treatment, making the focus on its application in managing osteoporosis particularly significant.