Why is this medication prescribed?

Calcimar is prescribed primarily for the treatment of conditions related to calcium metabolism, such as osteoporosis and Paget’s disease of bone. It contains calcitonin-salmon, a hormone that helps regulate calcium levels in the body. Here’s how it is typically used:

Prescription of Calcimar (Calcitonin-Salmon Injection):

• Osteoporosis: Calcimar is used to help slow bone loss and increase bone density in individuals with osteoporosis, particularly in postmenopausal women.
• Paget’s Disease of Bone: It can also be prescribed for Paget’s disease, a condition where there is abnormal bone growth and remodeling, leading to weak and brittle bones.

How should this medicine be used?

How to Use Calcimar:

• Dosage: The dosage of Calcimar (calcitonin-salmon) can vary depending on the condition being treated and the patient’s response to the medication. It is typically administered as an injection under the skin (subcutaneously) or into a muscle (intramuscularly).
• Frequency: The injections are usually given daily or several times a week, as prescribed by the healthcare provider.
• Administration: Healthcare professionals will administer the injections initially, and in some cases, patients may be taught how to self-administer the injections at home.
• Follow-up: It’s important to follow the dosing schedule as directed and attend regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and to check for any potential side effects.
• Storage: Store Calcimar as per the instructions provided with the medication. Typically, it needs to be refrigerated before use.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of calcium levels and bone density may be necessary during treatment with Calcimar to ensure it is effective and safe.
• Side Effects: Like all medications, Calcimar can cause side effects. Common side effects may include nausea, flushing, and injection site reactions. Rare but serious side effects can include allergic reactions and high blood calcium levels.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for specific instructions on how to use Calcimar, including dosage, administration, and any precautions or potential interactions with other medications you may be taking.

Other uses for this medicine

• Hypercalcemia: In some cases of hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels), Calcimar may be used to help lower calcium levels.
• Bone Pain: It might be prescribed for relief of bone pain associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis or metastatic bone disease.
• Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome): There is some evidence suggesting Calcimar may help alleviate pain and improve function in this condition, although more research is needed.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Calcimar, it’s important to follow these precautions:

• Allergic Reactions: If you have a known allergy to salmon proteins, you should not use Calcimar, as it contains calcitonin-salmon derived from salmon calcitonin.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Calcimar during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established. Consult with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Calcium Levels: Regular monitoring of calcium levels is necessary during treatment with Calcimar to avoid complications such as hypercalcemia (high calcium levels).
• Kidney Function: If you have impaired kidney function, your doctor may need to adjust the dosage of Calcimar, as the medication is primarily eliminated through the kidneys.
• Injection Site Reactions: Watch for any signs of injection site reactions, such as pain, redness, or swelling. Rotate injection sites as directed by your healthcare provider to minimize discomfort.
• Other Medications: Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you are taking, as some may interact with Calcimar. This includes diuretics and medications that affect calcium metabolism.
• Storage: Properly store Calcimar as directed (usually in the refrigerator) and follow any specific instructions regarding storage and expiration dates.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any other medical conditions, especially thyroid disorders, as Calcimar can affect thyroid function tests.

Always adhere to the dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare provider to ensure the safe and effective use of Calcimar for your specific condition.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with the use of Calcimar. However, maintaining a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is generally recommended for bone health. Your healthcare provider may advise you on dietary modifications based on your overall health and the specific condition being treated.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Subcutaneous or Intramuscular Injection: If you miss a scheduled injection, administer it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
• Regular Monitoring: It is important to maintain the prescribed dosing schedule to achieve the desired therapeutic effects. If you frequently forget doses, consider setting reminders or working with your healthcare provider to develop a schedule that works best for you.
• Consult Your Healthcare Provider: If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses or the administration of Calcimar, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Calcimar (calcitonin-salmon), like any medication, can cause side effects. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary. Here are some common and less common side effects associated with Calcimar:

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea: Feeling like you might vomit.
• Flushing: Redness or warmth in the face, neck, or upper chest.
• Injection Site Reactions: Pain, redness, swelling, or irritation at the injection site (for subcutaneous or intramuscular injections).

Less Common Side Effects:

• Headache: Mild to moderate pain in the head.
• Diarrhea: Loose or watery stools.
• Skin Rash: Itching, redness, or irritation on the skin.
• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or unsteady.
• Joint Pain: Discomfort or achiness in the joints.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Rarely, severe allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing, chest tightness, swelling of the face/throat, and severe dizziness may occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of a severe allergic reaction.

Important Notes:

• Monitoring: It’s essential to attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor for any side effects or complications related to Calcimar therapy.
• Serious Side Effects: Although rare, Calcimar may cause serious side effects such as high blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia), particularly if the dose is too high or if calcium supplements are also taken.
• Notify Your Doctor: If you experience any unexpected or severe side effects while using Calcimar, inform your healthcare provider promptly. They can assess whether adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the use of Calcimar and report any concerns or adverse effects you may encounter during treatment. This helps ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your medication regimen.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Calcimar:

• Storage:
  • Store Calcimar (calcitonin-salmon) as directed by the manufacturer or your healthcare provider.
  • Typically, it should be stored in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
  • Do not freeze Calcimar. If frozen, it should be discarded.
  • Keep the medication in its original packaging until ready to use to protect it from light.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of unused Calcimar properly according to local regulations or guidelines.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.
  • Consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider for guidance on how to safely dispose of Calcimar that is no longer needed or expired.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency: If you suspect an overdose of Calcimar or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or severe dizziness, seek immediate medical attention or call your local emergency services.
• Overdose Symptoms: Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, muscle weakness, and unusually fast or slow heartbeat.
• Treatment: Treatment for overdose may involve supportive care to manage symptoms and monitoring of calcium levels. Calcium-lowering medications may be administered if necessary.

What other information should I know?

• Medical Alerts: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are using Calcimar, especially before any surgical procedures or diagnostic tests.
• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will monitor your response to Calcimar therapy regularly, including checking calcium levels and bone density if applicable.
• Missed Doses: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
• Routine Appointments: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for follow-up evaluations and to discuss any concerns or changes in your condition.
• Special Instructions: Follow any additional instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding diet, calcium supplements, vitamin D supplements, and lifestyle modifications to support bone health and optimize treatment outcomes.

By understanding and following these guidelines for storage, disposal, emergency procedures, and general information, you can use Calcimar safely and effectively as part of your treatment plan for bone health conditions.