In providing client teaching, which diagnostic serum lab value should be monitored periodically during teriparatide treatment?

• A. Potassium.
• B. Hemoglobin.
• C. Calcium.
• D. Platelet count.

Answer: (C)

Calcium levels should be monitored periodically during teriparatide therapy because this PTH analog increases bone turnover and calcium mobilization, which can raise serum calcium. Teriparatide acts like parathyroid hormone, promoting calcium release from bone and enhancing renal reabsorption and intestinal absorption via active vitamin D. Monitoring calcium helps catch hypercalcemia early and guides treatment decisions, especially in patients with vitamin D deficiency, renal impairment, or other conditions affecting calcium balance. The other labs listed aren’t directly tied to the drug’s mechanism and aren’t routinely monitored for this therapy unless there are additional concerns.