Calcitonin for prevention of postmenopausal bone loss.
A 2-year randomised pilot study was conducted in 70 patients to see whether the osteoclast-inhibiting effect of calcitonin would reduce postmenopausal vertebral bone loss. An oestradiol-treated group was included in the study as a positive control since oestrogens are known to be effective. Calcitonin reduced vertebral bone loss in doses above 250 micrograms human calcitonin (50 international units) a week, and at this dose was as effective as oestradiol.
D000284:Administration, Oral; D000328:Adult; D002116:Calcitonin / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D004958:Estradiol / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007279:Injections, Subcutaneous; D008875:Middle Aged; D010024:Osteoporosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000517:prevention & control*; D010349:Patient Compliance; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011374:Progesterone / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011859:Radiography; D011897:Random Allocation; D012646:Self Administration
D011374:Progesterone; D004958:Estradiol; D002116:Calcitonin