Calcitonin injection

What is this medicine?

CALCITONIN (kal si TOE nin) is a hormone. It helps control calcium in the body. It is used to treat Paget's disease, osteoporosis, and hypercalcemia.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection under the skin or into a muscle. You will be taught how to prepare and give this medicine. Use exactly as directed. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or healthcare provider to get one.

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

Patients over 65 years old may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose.

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

• fever, chills

• tingling in the hands, 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

• loss of appetite

• nausea, vomiting

• pain, swelling where injected

• stomach pain

• swollen feet

• tremors

What may interact with this medicine?

• lithium

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 in a refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees C (36 and 46 degrees F). Do not freeze. 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:

• bone cancer

• low level of blood calcium

• 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. You will need regular blood tests while using this medicine.

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.

You may need to be on a special diet while taking this medicine. Check with your doctor. Ask if you need to take extra calcium or vitamin D while taking this medicine.