What is Calcitonin?
Calcitonin, a man-made version of a thyroid hormone that is found naturally in the gland, is a synthetic form. The injection of calcitonin is used to treat Paget’s disease or high blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia). The injection of calcitonin is used to treat osteoporosis among postmenopausal females. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of calcitonin.
Side effects of Calcitonin injection
You may experience increased bone pain in the first few weeks of treatment with calcitonin. This is not an indication that the medication doesn't work properly. If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat.
Calcitonin injections may cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Feeling of lightheadedness - as though one could pass out.
- Low calcium levels can cause muscle contractions, numbness, or tingling (around the mouth, fingers, and toes).
Some of the common side effects associated with calcitonin include:
- Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingling feeling);
- Nausea, vomiting,
- The injection site will swell.
There may be other side effects. Call your physician immediately if any side effects appear; for medical advice regarding side effects. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Similar/related drugs
Furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide, Lasix, alendronate, Prolia, Fosamax, and calcium carbonate
Warnings
Please read all the instructions on the label or package of your medication. Inform your healthcare provider about your medical conditions, your allergies, and the medicines you are using.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to salmon calcitonin, do not use the calcitonin.
Inform your physician immediately of any of the following issues:
- Low calcium blood levels (hypocalcemia) may occur as an indication that something else needs to be addressed in your health plan.
The use of calcitonin can increase the risk of certain types of cancer. Consult your doctor to determine your risk. This medicine is not known to harm an unborn child. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant. You may not be able to breastfeed your baby while taking this medication. You should ask your doctor if there are any risks.
How to take Calcitonin?
Before you receive your first dose, your doctor will perform an allergy test to ensure that you are not allergic. Read all instructions or guides included with your medication and adhere to their directions.Sometimes, your doctor will change the dose. You must take the medication exactly as prescribed.Injecting calcitonin into the muscle or beneath the skin is possible. You may be taught how to use the medicine by a healthcare provider. Please read and follow all instructions for use that come with your medication. If you do not understand the instructions, don't use them. Should you have any queries, contact your pharmacist or doctor immediately. Prepare the injection when it's time for administration.If the medicine is cloudy, has changed colour, or contains particles, do not use it. For new medicine, call your pharmacist. The injection of calcitonin is not a cure for Paget's disease. You could experience a relapse if you develop antibodies to calcitonin and become immune. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, see a physician as soon as possible. Calcitonin is only one part of an overall treatment plan that may include diet changes, physical activity, vitamin and mineral supplements, as well as changing certain behaviors. You should follow your doctor's advice.
Do not freeze. Store in the fridge.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are almost due for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.
Refill your prescription before you run out.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 if you suspect poison, or seek immediate medical advice.
What should be avoided?
Do not drive or engage in any hazardous activities until you have experienced the effects of calcitonin. You could have impaired reactions. Avoid smoking or quit smoking if you have osteoporosis. Smoking reduces your bone density and increases the risk of fractures.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies, may also affect calcitonin. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you have started or stopped using.
