[Calcitonin an XXVI. Value of replacement doses in daily practice]

Calcitonin and insulin are nowadays the most largely prescribed peptide hormones. It is therefore surprising that for some authors the relevant dosage of calcitonin remains a matter of concern. The dose-effect relationship was established twenty years ago, taking into account the kinetic analysis of calcium metabolism and the clinical data, enabling to assess effective dose of calcitonin. Our clinical experience concerning regularly followed-up patients confirms that the replacement dose of calcitonin is necessary and sufficient for managing the disorders of bone and calcium metabolism. Long-term calcitonin replacement treatment: represents a therapeutic approach preserving the integrity and the sensitivity of the hormone receptors, is devoid of the undesirable effects due to pharmacologic doses of the hormone. Therefore the compliance to the treatment is very high. Replacement therapy should become the rule governing the use of calcitonin.