BoneFDA Approved

Calcitonin

Name: Calcitonin — Mechanism, Dosing & Research
Creator: Peptide Association Editorial Team

Intranasal, Subcutaneous injection, Intramuscular injection

Written by Peptide Association Editorial TeamMedically reviewed by Ian Justl Ellis, MD, CPTLast reviewed August 3, 2026Editorial policy

Overview

A 32-amino acid peptide hormone naturally produced by parafollicular C-cells of the thyroid gland. Calcitonin inhibits osteoclast-mediated bone resorption by binding to calcitonin receptors on osteoclasts, reducing their activity and number.

Mechanism of Action

Salmon calcitonin is approximately 40-50 times more potent than human calcitonin and has a longer half-life, making it the preferred therapeutic form.

Research Summary & Key Findings

FDA-approved for postmenopausal osteoporosis, Paget's disease, and hypercalcemia. PROOF trial demonstrated 33% reduction in vertebral fractures with nasal calcitonin 200 IU daily. Has analgesic properties for acute vertebral compression fractures independent of its anti-resorptive effects. Use has declined due to availability of more potent anti-resorptive agents and a small signal of increased malignancy risk with long-term use.

Clinical Status

FDA Approved

Calcitonin has received FDA approval and is available for clinical use under appropriate medical supervision. Consult a qualified healthcare provider for prescribing information.

Administration Routes

IntranasalSubcutaneous injectionIntramuscular injection

References

Primary literature

PubMed — "Calcitonin"
Peer-reviewed literature indexed by the National Library of Medicine.
ClinicalTrials.gov — "Calcitonin"
Registered interventional and observational studies, including status and phase.
PubChem — "Calcitonin"
Chemical structure, molecular properties, and bioactivity data.

Study-level citations for this compound are being verified against the primary sources before publication. The database queries above return the current indexed literature in the meantime.

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Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational and research purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide therapy. The Peptide Association does not endorse or recommend any specific treatment protocol. See our editorial policy for how this content is produced and reviewed.