Last Updated: 12/23/2024
Calcitonin (nasal spray)
Drug Name(s): Fortical, Miacalcin
Class: Hormones
Used to treat postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Dosage
Form(s): nasal spray
200 IUs daily in a single dose
Special Instructions
Prime the pump before first use. Alternate nostrils daily.
Refrigerate before and after opening. Use along with at least 1,000 mg elemental calcium and 400 ID vitamin D per day to retard the progressive loss of bone mass.
Potential Side Effects
Crusting, patches or sores inside the nose or other signs of nasal irritation; nosebleeds; runny nose
Be Aware
Use of calcitonin nasal spray has been associated with a slightly increased risk of malignancies. Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
The Arthritis Foundation’s Drug Guide is meant for education — not self-medicating. The Arthritis Foundation does not endorse any products mentioned in this guide. While we endeavor to keep the information up to date, we make no representations or warranties about the completeness of the information provided.
