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Drugs & Medications - Calcitonin (Salmon) Nasl

Calcitonin (Salmon) Nasl

Important Note

CALCITONIN SPRAY - NASAL

Pronunciation: (kal-sih-TOE-nin)

Brand Name(s): Fortical, Miacalcin

Warnings
Uses
Side Effects
Precautions
Interactions
Overdose
Calcitonin (Salmon) Nasl Warnings
Calcitonin (Salmon) Nasl Uses

This medication is used to treat brittle bone disease (osteoporosis) in women who are at least 5 years past "the change of life" (menopause). Calcitonin works by slowing bone loss to help maintain strong bones and reduce your risk of fractures.

How to use Calcitonin (Salmon) Nasl

Read the patient and product information sheets if available from your pharmacist before you start using calcitonin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions regarding the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

This medication is for use in the nose as directed, usually one spray in one nostril each day, alternating nostrils daily.

Remove a new bottle from the refrigerator and allow it to reach room temperature. Follow the instructions on how to prime the pump the first time you use a new bottle. Once the pump is primed, it does not have to be reprimed if the bottle is properly stored in an upright position. Consult your pharmacist if you have any questions.

To use the nasal spray, remove the protective cap, keep your head upright and insert the tip into a nostril. Press down firmly on the pump to deliver the medication. Replace the protective cap. Use the other nostril the next day.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day.

Calcitonin (Salmon) Nasl Side Effects

Runny nose, nose bleeds, nasal irritation, dry nose with crusting, headache, dizziness, nausea, flushing of the face, or back pain may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if this unlikely but serious side effect occurs: nasal sores.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Calcitonin (Salmon) Nasl Precautions

Before taking calcitonin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history.

This medication is used mainly in women after menopause. Therefore, it is unlikely to be used during pregnancy or breast-feeding. Consult your doctor if you have any questions about this product.

Calcitonin (Salmon) Nasl Interactions

Your healthcare professionals (e.g., doctor or pharmacist) may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for it. Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use.

Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

Calcitonin (Salmon) Nasl Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.

NOTES:

Do not share this medication with others.

Lifestyle changes that help promote healthy bones include increasing weight-bearing exercise, stopping smoking, limiting alcohol, and eating well-balanced meals that contain adequate calcium and vitamin D. Since you may also need to take calcium and vitamin D supplements and make lifestyle changes, consult your doctor for specific advice.

Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., bone density tests, nasal exams) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.

MISSED DOSE:

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

STORAGE:

Store unopened bottles in the refrigerator between 36-46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C). Do not freeze.

For US products: Once the bottle is opened and the pump is primed, store at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) in an upright position away from light and moisture. Discard the unused portion after the number of days noted on the package. If you are unsure when to discard your brand, ask your pharmacist.

For Canadian products: Once the bottle is opened and the pump is primed, store at room temperature below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) in an upright position away from light and moisture. Discard the unused portion after 4 weeks.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Information last revised May 2009 Copyright(c) 2009 First DataBank, Inc.

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