Calcitonin – What It Is and Why It Matters

If you’ve ever heard of a hormone that helps keep your bones strong, you’re probably thinking about calcitonin. It’s a natural protein made by the thyroid gland that lowers calcium levels in the blood. When doctors need to protect bone density or treat high calcium, they turn to synthetic versions of this hormone.

Common Uses of Calcitonin

Calcitonin is most often prescribed for two reasons: osteoporosis and hypercalcemia. In osteoporosis it slows down the cells that break down bone, giving your skeleton a chance to stay solid. People with spinal fractures or severe bone loss find relief with regular nasal sprays or injections.

The other big use is to drop dangerously high calcium levels, which can happen after certain cancers or during a condition called Paget’s disease. By lowering calcium quickly, calcitonin helps prevent kidney stones and heart rhythm problems that high calcium can cause.

Safety Tips & Side Effects

Using calcitonin is generally safe, but there are a few things to watch. The most common side effect is a runny nose or mild irritation if you use the nasal spray. Some people feel a little nausea or flushing after an injection.

If you notice severe allergic reactions—like hives, swelling, or trouble breathing—stop using it and call a doctor right away. Also, long‑term daily use can sometimes lead to your body getting used to the hormone, which reduces its effectiveness over time. Doctors often limit treatment to a few months and then switch to another medication.

Before you start calcitonin, tell your doctor about any allergies, kidney problems, or if you’re pregnant. The dose will depend on why you need it: osteoporosis patients usually get a nasal spray once daily, while hypercalcemia cases might need an injection every few days.

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