What It's Used For

Calcitonin is prescribed for:

Postmenopausal osteoporosis (not first-line)
Paget's disease of bone
Hypercalcemia of malignancy
Endocrine bone conditions

Available as nasal spray or injection.

Side Effects

Common side effects:

Nasal irritation (nasal spray)
Nausea
Flushing
Injection site reactions

Serious side effects:

Increased cancer risk with long-term use
Hypocalcemia
Allergic reactions

Additional Information

What is Calcitonin?

Calcitonin is a hormone that inhibits osteoclast activity, reducing bone resorption.

Limited Role

Now rarely used for osteoporosis due to:

Modest efficacy
Concerns about cancer risk with long-term use
Availability of more effective treatments

Acute Pain Benefit

May help with acute pain from vertebral fractures, which is a unique advantage.

Learn more at MedlinePlus.

Related Health Conditions

This medication is commonly used to treat or manage the following conditions:

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis weakens bones due to age, hormonal changes, poor diet, medications, certain medical conditions, and lifestyle factors, increasing fracture risk even from minor incidents.

Learn More

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. Your doctor can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific health condition and medical history.

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Calcitonin