FDA approved

Teriparatide (Forteo)

Teriparatide is parathyroid hormone (PTH 1-34) analog. Teriparatide is a lab-made version of the active part of parathyroid hormone. Sold as Forteo by Eli Lilly, it was one of the first medicines that builds new bone rather than only slowing bone loss.

Education only. Not medical advice. No dosing information.

Status (verified Oct 29, 2026): FDA approved Nov 26, 2002 (Forteo, NDA 021318) for osteoporosis at high fracture risk. Source: FDA approves Forteo (NDA 021318)
Evidence tier: FDA approved; large randomized trials

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What it is

Teriparatide is a lab-made version of the active part of parathyroid hormone. Sold as Forteo by Eli Lilly, it was one of the first medicines that builds new bone rather than only slowing bone loss.

How it works

Given in short daily pulses, it stimulates bone-forming cells (osteoblasts) more than bone-removing cells, increasing bone density.

What it's researched for

Osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men at high fracture risk, and steroid-related osteoporosis.

Where it shows up on Peptide Horizon

Regulatory and research timeline

  • 2001-05: Pivotal fracture trial published in NEJM (source)
  • 2002-11-26: FDA approves Forteo (NDA 021318) (source)

Key trials and studies

FAQ

Is teriparatide FDA approved?
Yes. The FDA approved Forteo (teriparatide) on Nov 26, 2002 for osteoporosis in people at high risk of fracture.

How is teriparatide different from abaloparatide?
Both act on the PTH receptor to build bone. Teriparatide is a PTH fragment; abaloparatide (Tymlos) is based on PTH-related protein.

Is teriparatide a peptide?
Yes. It is the first 34 amino acids of human parathyroid hormone.

Related peptides

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Sources

Editorial review - Last reviewed Oct 29, 2026