Final answer:
Teriparatide is a medication that stimulates bone formation by acting on osteoblasts and is used for treating osteoporosis. It is administered by subcutaneous injection and has some potential toxicities, including the risk of osteosarcoma.
Step-by-step explanation:
Teriparatide is a recombinant form of parathyroid hormone that includes the first 34 amino acids, which are the biologically active region of the 84-amino acid human parathyroid hormone. It works primarily by stimulating osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation. This action contrasts with osteoclasts, which are involved in bone resorption. Clinical uses of Teriparatide include the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men at high risk for fracture, as well as in individuals who have sustained a fracture due to osteoporosis. It is administered via daily subcutaneous injection.
Potential toxicities of Teriparatide can include an increased risk of osteosarcoma, hypercalcemia, leg cramps, and dizziness. Because of the osteosarcoma risk, it is usually not prescribed for more than two years and is contraindicated in individuals with an increased baseline risk for osteosarcoma, including those with Paget's disease or prior radiation therapy involving the skeleton.