Teriparatide/Abaloparatide: Worsening BMD
If the BMD is worsening (outside the margin of the least significant change), this should prompt a reevaluation of teriparatide/abaloparatide therapy.
Common causes to consider:
- Medication nonadherence – teriparatide/abaloparatide requires daily subcutaneous injections
- There is an unaddressed/unrecognized/untreated secondary cause of osteoporosis.
- Obtain labs: CBC, CMP, alkaline phosphatase, Phosphorus, magnesium, Parathyroid hormone, Thyroid function test, 25-hydroxy vitamin D, 24-hour urine calcium and creatinine (off calcium supplements, diuretics), +/- testosterone
- Perform a medication review and address culprit medications if possible
- Consider evaluating for secondary causes of osteoporosis as guided by labs, history and physical exam:
- For example, anemia and hyperproteinemia suggests multiple myeloma
- a low vitamin D may suggest a malabsorption state caused by celiac disease
- Consider additional evaluation
Consider alternative anabolic antiresorptive:
- The patient may have a poor response to teriparatide or abaloparatide therapy and needs a stronger agent
- Consider Romosozumab, although there is sparse data transitioning from a PTH analog.
Endocrinology consultation is needed for further guidance or if diagnostic uncertainty