What is the dosage and how should it be used?
Calcitonin injection:
The injection form is given subcutaneously (a shot just below the skin layer) or intramuscularly (a shot into the muscle). Your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist will show you how to administer the medication. Follow all directions carefully.
Throw away all empty syringes and vials as directed by your health care provider.
To avoid allergic reactions (especially if you have a history of protein allergies), your doctor may start with skin testing - a small test dose of calcitonin salmon is injected to check for a reaction.
The dose usually is one shot once or twice a day, but some patients may require less frequent dosing. To help avoid side effects, your doctor may increase your dose gradually over a couple of weeks.
Use calcitonin salmon injection exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
When used to manage Paget's disease or osteoporosis, it is important to note that calcitonin salmon helps to treat symptoms but does not cure the disease.
The length of your treatment depends on your response to the medication. Generally, treatment continues as long as your symptoms improve. Do not stop using calcitonin salmon injection without talking to your doctor.
Calcitonin nasal spray:
This medication is for use in the nose as directed, usually one spray in one nostril each day alternating nostrils daily.
Do not use this more often or continue using this for longer than prescribed.
The first time the nasal spray is used the pump must be properly activated (primed). Learn the proper procedures and always consult your pharmacist and the product instruction sheet for details.
Once the pump is activated, it does not have to be reactivated before each daily dose.
To use the nasal spray, first gently blow your nose to clear the nasal passages.
With your head upright, insert the tip of the nasal spray into a nostril.
Pull the two white side holders toward the bottle to release the drug into the nose.
Gently breathe in through the nostril then out through the mouth.
Use the other nostril the next day.
It is important to maintain an adequate diet rich in calcium and vitamin D while taking this medication.
Why is this medication prescribed?
What special precautions should I follow?
What should I do if I forget a dose?
What side effects can this medication cause?