human parathyroid hormone

Human parathyroid hormone (PTH) is a naturally occurring polypeptide hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands, playing a critical role in maintaining calcium and phosphate homeostasis in the blood. It acts on bones, kidneys, and indirectly on the small intestine to increase serum calcium levels. Therapeutically, recombinant forms and fragments of human parathyroid hormone are used as drugs. For instance, recombinant human parathyroid hormone is prescribed as an adjunct to calcium and vitamin D to manage hypocalcemia in patients with hypoparathyroidism. Its mechanism involves agonistic activity at the parathyroid hormone 1 receptor (PTH1R), which leads to increased renal calcium reabsorption, stimulation of calcium release from bone, and enhanced intestinal calcium absorption via activated vitamin D. One such recombinant product, Natpara, was approved but later faced manufacturing issues and its global manufacturing was discontinued. Another therapeutic form, teriparatide, a 1-34 fragment of PTH, is used in the treatment of osteoporosis.

Brand names

NatparaAdthyzaNiva ThyroidAPur ThyroidForteoBonsityPreotactYorvipath

Other names

parathormoneparathyrin