Most Common Side Effects of Tymlos (Abaloparatide)
The most common side effects of Tymlos include dizziness, nausea, headache, palpitations, and injection site reactions, with these adverse events generally being mild in nature but occurring more frequently than with teriparatide. 1, 2, 3
Primary Adverse Effects
The most frequently reported side effects in clinical trials include:
- Dizziness - Among the most common complaints reported by patients receiving abaloparatide 3
- Nausea - Consistently reported as a primary gastrointestinal adverse effect 1, 3
- Headache - Frequently occurring throughout treatment 3
- Palpitations and increased heart rate - Notably more common with abaloparatide compared to teriparatide, representing a distinguishing safety concern 2, 3
- Injection site reactions - Expected with subcutaneous administration 1
Comparative Safety Profile
Abaloparatide demonstrates a somewhat higher overall risk for adverse effects and treatment discontinuation compared to teriparatide, though it has a significantly lower incidence of hypercalcemia. 1, 2 In clinical studies, abaloparatide showed higher rates of discontinuation due to adverse effects when directly compared to teriparatide, with cardiovascular symptoms (palpitations, increased heart rate) being particularly notable 2.
The lower risk of hypercalcemia with abaloparatide versus teriparatide represents a meaningful safety advantage, as this reflects less effect on osteoclasts and potentially better tolerability for patients sensitive to calcium disturbances 1, 3.
Severity and Tolerability
The adverse effects associated with abaloparatide are generally mild in nature and manageable 3. Most patients can continue therapy despite experiencing these side effects 1. However, the cardiovascular symptoms (palpitations, tachycardia) warrant specific patient counseling and monitoring, particularly in patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions 2.
Clinical Considerations
When initiating Tymlos, counsel patients specifically about:
- Expected dizziness and nausea, which are among the most common complaints 3
- Palpitations or sensation of increased heart rate, which occur more frequently than with alternative anabolic agents 2
- Injection site reactions that are typical of subcutaneous administration 1
- The generally mild and self-limiting nature of these effects 3