Drugs and Supplements

Prescription Drugs

Miacalcin, calcitonin-salmon, side effects, drug interactions, overdose, dosage

Miacalcin

Generic name: calcitonin-salmon


What is Miacalcin?

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Miacalcin is a protein-like medication that is used to help your bones retain and store calcium. Miacalcin is used to treat osteoporosis in women who are more than 5 years into menopause and who have a low bone mass (compared to healthy pre-menopausal women).


What is the most important information I should know about Miacalcin?

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Rarely, Miacalcin can cause serious allergic reactions that require emergency medical attention. If your doctor suspects that you may have an allergy to Miacalcin, he or she will likely test your sensitivity to Miacalcin before prescribing it. If you are using the nasal spray form of Miacalcin, your doctor may periodically examine your nostrils and sinuses to check for any possible side effects of the Miacalcin nasal spray.


Who should not take Miacalcin?

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You should not take Miacalcin if you have an allergy to Miacalcin or any of its ingredients.


What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Miacalcin?

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Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Miacalcin. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have any ulcerations inside your nostrils or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to Miacalcin.


What is the usual dosage?

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The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual dose is 1 spray in one nostril once daily, alternating nostrils every other day.


How should I take Miacalcin?

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Miacalcin should be kept in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. Once you start to use the nasal spray, you should store it at room temperature and in an upright position for up to 35 days.

Before using a new bottle, let the bottle reach room temperature and then "prime" the bottle by pressing down on the pump until a full spray of solution is released.

The nasal spray should only be sprayed in one nostril daily, not both, unless you are otherwise directed by your doctor.

After 30 doses, the nasal spray bottle may not deliver the correct amount of solution even if there is still some in the bottle. Keep track of the number of doses used from the bottle. After 30 sprays, you should start using a new bottle.


What should I avoid while taking Miacalcin?

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The use of Miacalcin nasal spray may cause you to develop nasal conditions such as runny nose, sinusitis, or a nosebleed. Therefore, you should avoid using any other nasal agents that may cause irritation to your nose unless you have been directed to do otherwise by your physician.


What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Miacalcin?

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There are no reports of food or drug interactions with Micalcin. However, speak to your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking.


What are the possible side effects of Miacalcin?

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Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects of the nostrils or nose as a whole may include: bloody nose, dryness, nasal crusts, infection, irritation, itching, redness, runniness or congestion, soreness acroos bridge of nose, sores, tenderness, thick feeling, uncomfortable feeling

Side effects of the body as a whole may include: back pain, arthritic pain, headache


Can I receive Miacalcin if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

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You should not take Miacalcin during pregnancy unless otherwise prescribed by your physician.

It is not known whether Miacalcin is excreted in breast milk. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.


What should I do if I miss a dose of Miacalcin?

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If you miss a dose of Miacalcin, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not double your next dose.


How should I store Miacalcin?

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Refrigerate Miacalcin until you are ready to use it. Protect it from freezing.

Once you have opened a bottle, keep it in an upright position and at room temperature for up to 35 days. You should only use 30 sprays per bottle; after 30 sprays, the bottle may not deliver the correct dose.