Calcitonin: Comprehensive Research Guide

Overview

Calcitonin is a 32-amino acid peptide hormone produced by the parafollicular cells (C cells) of the thyroid gland. It plays a crucial role in calcium homeostasis by lowering blood calcium levels through inhibition of bone resorption and promotion of calcium excretion.

Mechanism of Action

Calcium Regulation

• **Bone Resorption': Inhibits osteoclast activity
• **Calcium Excretion': Promotes calcium excretion by kidneys
• **Blood Calcium': Lowers blood calcium levels
• **Bone Protection': Protects bone mass

Bone Effects

• **Osteoporosis': Used to treat osteoporosis
• **Bone Density': May improve bone density
• **Fracture Risk': May reduce fracture risk

Research Applications

Medical Applications

• **Osteoporosis': Treatment of osteoporosis
• **Hypercalcemia': Treatment of high blood calcium
• **Paget's Disease': Treatment of Paget's disease
• **Bone Pain': Treatment of bone pain

Research

• **Bone Health': Research into bone health
• **Calcium Metabolism': Research into calcium regulation

Dosage

• **Osteoporosis': 100 IU daily (subcutaneous or intranasal)
• **Hypercalcemia': 4-8 IU/kg every 6-12 hours
• **Administration': Subcutaneous or intranasal
• **Duration': Long-term use possible

Side Effects

• **Nausea': Possible nausea
• **Flushing': Possible flushing
• **Hypocalcemia': Low blood calcium possible
• **GI Effects': Possible GI effects

Storage

• **Temperature': 2-8°C (refrigerated)
• **Light': Protect from light
• **Stability': Relatively stable

This information is for research and educational purposes only. Calcitonin is a prescription medication.