Teduglutide: Uses & Side Effects

Teduglutide is used to treat short bowel syndrome in adults who depend on intravenous (parenteral) feeding to receive nutrition.

Before taking this medicine

Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of this medicine.

Teduglutide can cause any abnormal cells in your body to grow faster. Some abnormal cells could become cancerous, increasing your risk of cancer of the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, or intestines. Ask your doctor about your specific risk.

Teduglutide may also increase your risk of polyps in your colon (large intestine). You will need a colonoscopy before and during treatment with teduglutide.

Teduglutide is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

  • cancer;
  • polyps in your intestines or rectum;
  • a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines), a colostomy or ileostomy;
  • heart problems, high blood pressure;
  • kidney disease; or
  • problems with your gallbladder or pancreas.

Short bowel syndrome can increase your risk of malnutrition during pregnancy. This could lead to premature delivery, low birth weight, birth defects, or other complications in both mother and baby. Follow your doctor’s instructions about using this medicine if you are pregnant.

You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.

Side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

  • severe constipation or stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting;
  • swelling in your hands and feet, rapid weight gain, feeling short of breath;
  • a change in your stools (bowel movements);
  • severe pain in your upper stomach spreading to your back;
  • fever, chills; or
  • dark urine or yellowing of your skin or eyes.

Common side effects may include:

  • stomach pain or swelling;
  • nausea, vomiting;
  • cold or flu symptoms;
  • swelling; or
  • pain, swelling, redness, or other irritation where the medicine was injected.


Keyword: Teduglutide.

* The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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