Chemistry, physiology, and therapeutic applications of calcitonin

The chemistry and physiology of calcitonin are reviewed with particular emphasis on the evolution of the hormone and its modern role in humans. It seems likely that the relative deficiency of calcitonin in women may be important in postmenopausal bone loss. A major therapeutic application of calcitonin is in the treatment of Paget's disease of bone, and current recommendations for therapy are presented.