Calcitonin Nasal Spray

What is this medication?

CALCITONIN (kal si TOE nin) treats osteoporosis. It works by making your bones stronger and less likely to break (fracture).

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Fortical, Miacalcin

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Nasal sores or trauma
• An unusual or allergic reaction to calcitonin, fish, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for use in the nose. Take it as directed on your prescription label. Alternate nostrils daily. Do not use more often than directed. Make sure that you are using your nasal spray correctly. Ask you care team if you have any questions.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

• Lithium

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Your care team will look at the inside of your nose before you start using the medication and periodically during use.

Talk to your care team about your risk of cancer. You may be more at risk for certain types of cancers if you take this medication.

You should make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D while you are taking this medication. Discuss the foods you eat and the vitamins you take with your care team.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Crusting or sores inside the nose
• Frequent or severe nosebleeds
• Low calcium level—muscle pain or cramps, confusion, tingling, or numbness in the hands or feet
• Whistling through one or both nostrils that does not go away

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Back pain
• Dryness or irritation inside the nose
• Headache
• Joint pain
• Nosebleed
• Runny or stuffy nose

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store the unopened medication in a refrigerator. Do not freeze. Once the medication is opened store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F) in an upright position for up to 35 days. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

• Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
• If you cannot return the medication, ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of this medication safely.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.