Calcitonin
Definition
Calcitonin is a hormone involved in regulating calcium metabolism. The hormone calcitonin is produced by the thyroid gland. A synthetic human product is available.
Purpose
Calcitonin is often ordered for cancer patients experiencing bone pain due to metastasis. Calcitonin is also used to treat Paget's disease, post-menopausal osteoporosis and increased levels of calcium in the blood.
Description
Calcitonin reduces breakdown of bone. It causes less bone tissue to be reabsorbed. It slows the rate of bone destruction and decreases the amount of calcium...
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