Calcitonin (Into the nose)

Introduction:

Calcitonin (kal-si-TOE-nin)

Treats osteoporosis (bone loss) in women who are past menopause.

Brand Name(s):

Miacalcin, Fortical

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Spray

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• You may also need to take calcium and vitamin D supplements while you are using calcitonin.
• This medicine is for use only in the nose. Do not get any of it in your eyes or on your skin. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
• This medicine comes with patient instructions. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Before using a new bottle of medicine, take the bottle out of the refrigerator and let it slowly warm up to room temperature.
• If you are using the nasal spray for the first time, you will need to prime the spray. To do this, pump the bottle until some of the medicine sprays out. Now it is ready to use. Prime the spray after each time you clean the pump, or if you have not used the medicine for 5 days or longer.
• This medicine is usually used in only one nostril each day, switching sides from day to day. For example, if you spray the medicine into the right nostril on the first day, use the left nostril the second day, then switch back to the right side on the third day.
• Before using the medicine, gently blow your nose to clear the nostrils.
• After using the nasal spray, wipe the tip of the bottle with a clean tissue and put the cap back on.
• Never share your medicine with anyone.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Keep the bottle tightly closed when not using it.
• Store unopened bottles of medicine in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Store opened bottles of medicine in an upright position at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. An opened bottle can be stored at room temperature for up to 30 days. After 30 days, throw away any unused medicine.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
• Keep all medicine away from children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you have previously used other medicines for osteoporosis, such as etidronate (Didronel®) or risedronate (Actonel®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have Paget's disease of bone or are allergic to any preservatives.
• Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
• Heavy or ongoing bleeding from your nose
• Severe sores, redness, or irritation in your nose

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Back pain
• Light bleeding from your nose
• Mild itching, dryness, or tenderness in your nose
• Runny or stuffy nose

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor: