Calcitonin (Miacalcin) Drug for Osteoporosis: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

Calcitonin
(Miacalcin, United States)

Use:

Calcitonin or Miacalcin is used in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. It is a nasal spray, although there are injectable preparations that are ideal for in hospital use.

How It Works:

Calcitonin or Miacalcin is a peptide hormone that interferes with osteoclasts and inhibits bone resorption. This means that bones do not break down and remain as they are.

Side Effects:

Because Calcitonin or Miacalcin is a nasal spray, it can cause nasal dryness and irritation. Ideally the dose is 200 IU - one spray - in one nostril daily. Alternating nostrils each day will reduce this dryness and irritation.

Cautions for People:

Calcitonin or Miacalcin prevents bones from breaking down, however sufficient raw material for bone building is still needed, that is calcium and vitamin D. People using Calcitonin or Miacalcin should check their diets to ensure they are obtaining sufficient quantities of both, and if they are not take a supplement. Although recommendations may vary as to how much calcium and vitamin D is needed, it is considered that postmenopausal women should have 1500 mg of calcium and 400 IU of vitamin D.

Drug Interactions:

It would make sense that Calcitonin or Miacalcin could be used with other drugs for osteoporosis to build the strongest possible bones, however it is unclear whether there are any benefits or not.

Further Reading:

Medical Letter 1996;38(965):1
BMJ 1992;305:556

Added to Virtual Drugstore November 1996.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.