Salmon Calcitonin
Salmon calcitonin is a synthetic hormone that mimics the action of naturally occurring calcitonin. It works by inhibiting bone-resorbing cells called osteoclasts, which helps reduce bone loss and lower elevated blood calcium levels. This medication is primarily used to treat Paget's disease, hypercalcemia from various causes, and osteoporosis in postmenopausal women when other treatments are not suitable.
A synthetic hormone that inhibits bone breakdown and lowers blood calcium, used primarily for Paget's disease and osteoporosis.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- H05BA01
- RxNorm
- 36118
- Generic
- Salmon Calcitonin
- Class
- atc-h05
- Brands
- Miacalcin
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- nasal
- Forms
- spray, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of Paget's disease of bone, management of hypercalcemia (particularly malignancy-related), and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis when alternative therapies are inappropriate. May also be used for bone pain associated with metastatic bone disease.
Acts as an agonist at calcitonin receptors on osteoclasts, inhibiting their activity and reducing bone resorption. This decreases bone turnover, lowers serum calcium levels, and can provide analgesic effects in bone pain conditions.
Available as intranasal spray and injectable formulations. Common side effects include nasal irritation (spray), nausea, flushing, and arthralgias. Should be administered with adequate calcium and vitamin D supplementation. Rare hypersensitivity reactions may occur. Nasal formulation is generally not recommended for osteoporosis due to potential cancer risk concerns.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy