Salmon calcitonin in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.

The principal calcitonins used therapeutically are porcine, human (synthetic), salmon (synthetic), and eel. Of these substances, salmon calcitonin is the most potent (Reginster 1991). Injectable forms of salmon calcitonin were first indicated for use in the treatment of Paget's disease in the United States and later received an indication for use in the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. The injectable [intramuscular (IM) or subcutaneous (SC)] formulation of salmon calcitonin, however, has been associated with a high rate of noncompliance in elderly patients. The recently approved nasal-spray formulation has ameliorated the difficulties inherent in parenteral administration and is considered a suitable option as an alternative therapy in patients who are not appropriate candidates for estrogen replacement therapy. (Trends Endocrinol Metab 1997;8:89-92). (c) 1997, Elsevier Science Inc.