Calcitonin nasal spray

What is this medicine?

CALCITONIN (kal si TOE nin) stops bone loss and breaks. It will make your bones more dense, or thicker. This medicine is used to treat postmenopausal osteoporosis.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is only for use in the nose. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Alternate nostrils daily. Do not use more often than directed. Make sure that you are using your nasal spray correctly. Ask you doctor or health care provider if you have any questions.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• chest pain, tightness

• dizziness

• infection or fever

• nosebleed or nose sores

• tingling in the hands or feet

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• back or joint pain

• flushing

• headache

• nausea or upset stomach

• runny, stuffy, or irritated nose

• tremors

• watery eyes

What may interact with this medicine?

• prior bone scan with diphosphonate in patient with Paget's disease

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store the unopened medicine in a refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees C (36 and 46 degrees F). Do not freeze. Once opened store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F) in an upright position for up to 35 days. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• nasal sores or trauma

• an unusual or allergic reaction to calcitonin, fish, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Your doctor will need to exam the inside of your nose before you start using the medicine and periodically during use.

Talk to your doctor about your risk of cancer. You may be more at risk for certain types of cancers if you take this medicine.

Be sure that you get at least 1000 mg of calcium and 400 I.U. of vitamin D while you are taking this medicine. This will help the medicine work better. Ask your doctor or health care provider for good nutrition advice.