Teriparatide: a novel means to ultimately achieve true regeneration!!!

"Perioceutics" or the use of the pharmacological agents which are specifically developed to manage periodontitis, is an interesting and an emerging aid in the management of periodontal diseases, along with mechanical debridement. Host modulation therapies are being proposed and developed to bring down excessive levels of enzymes, cytokines, prostanoids, as well modulate osteoclast functions. Over the past two decades, many drugs have been investigated for their host modulating properties in both animal and early human clinical studies. These agents include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, sub antimicrobial dose doxycycline and systemic bisphosphonates. Recently, a new drug has been added to the list, namely, teriparatide, which is a bone forming drug. It is a biosynthetic human parathyroid hormone. Multiple clinical trials have shown that teriparatide is associated with increased bone mineral density. This review has focused on the mechanism of action of teriparatide and its potential role in the treatment of periodontal disease.