Pharmacist Medication Insights: Parathyroid Hormone (Natpara) for Hypocalcemia

Shire’s parathyroid hormone (Natpara) is indicated to control hypocalcemia in patients with hypoparathyroidism.

The FDA approved Natpara in January 2015 as an adjunct to calcium and vitamin D therapy. The bioengineered replica of human parathyroid hormone is self-administered once a day by subcutaneous injection, and it is available in 4 dosage strengths: 25 mcg, 50 mcg, 75 mcg, and 100 mcg.

The most common side effects associated with Natpara include a tingling, tickling, or burning feeling on the skin, as well as headache and nausea.