Elcatonin
Elcatonin is a synthetic analog of eel calcitonin, chemically modified from the natural eel hormone to improve stability. It is used in Japan and some other Asian markets for osteoporosis and associated bone pain, though it does not hold FDA approval and is not marketed in the United States. As a calcitonin-class peptide, it works by inhibiting bone resorption to help slow bone loss. It is administered by intramuscular injection under medical supervision.
Reported benefits
- Inhibits osteoclast-mediated bone resorption
- May reduce bone pain associated with osteoporosis or vertebral compression
- Used as an option for patients unable to tolerate bisphosphonates
- Long track record of use in Japan for osteoporosis management
How it works
Elcatonin binds calcitonin receptors on osteoclasts, the cells responsible for breaking down bone tissue, directly inhibiting their activity and reducing bone resorption. This shifts the balance of bone remodeling toward reduced turnover, which can help preserve bone mineral density over time. Calcitonin receptor activation in the central nervous system may also contribute to its reported analgesic effect on bone-related pain.
Dosing ranges
| Tier | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 10 IU | once or twice weekly, intramuscular |
| Moderate | 20 IU | once or twice weekly, intramuscular |
| High | 40 IU | once or twice weekly, intramuscular |
Mixing & syringe units
Reconstitution calculator
How much water to add and how many insulin-syringe units to draw for Elcatonin. Educational only.
Draw to this mark
400units
= 4 mL for a 20 IU dose
Concentration
5 IU/mL
Doses per vial
0
This dose needs 400 units, more than a 100-unit syringe holds. Add more water, split the dose, or use a larger syringe.
A U-100 syringe reads 100 units per mL. This is a reconstitution math helper only, not a prescription or dosing advice. Verify every calculation and consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Possible side effects
Stacking notes
Commonly combined with calcium and vitamin D supplementation; not typically combined with other calcitonin products or bisphosphonates without specialist guidance.
Common protocols
Common questions
What is Elcatonin used for?
Elcatonin is a synthetic analog of eel calcitonin, chemically modified from the natural eel hormone to improve stability. It is used in Japan and some other Asian markets for osteoporosis and associated bone pain, though it does not hold FDA approval and is not marketed in the United States. As a calcitonin-class peptide, it works by inhibiting bone resorption to help slow bone loss. It is administered by intramuscular injection under medical supervision. Reported benefits include inhibits osteoclast-mediated bone resorption, may reduce bone pain associated with osteoporosis or vertebral compression, used as an option for patients unable to tolerate bisphosphonates.
What is a typical Elcatonin dose?
Reported ranges run 10-40 IU. A low protocol is 10 IU once or twice weekly, intramuscular, and a high protocol is 40 IU once or twice weekly, intramuscular. This is reference information, not a dosing recommendation.
What is the half life of Elcatonin?
Very short plasma half-life, on the order of minutes to under an hour, though biological effects on bone turnover last considerably longer. That is what sets the dosing frequency, and it is why the timing guidance is as directed by your clinician.
How is Elcatonin administered?
Intramuscular: into muscle. Administered by intramuscular injection; not available as an approved product in the United States.
How long is a Elcatonin cycle?
Continuous weekly or twice-weekly intramuscular injections during active osteoporosis treatment on, followed by Reassessed periodically with bone mineral density monitoring; not typically stopped abruptly off. Primarily used in Japan and parts of Asia; not an FDA-approved product in the United States.
What are the side effects of Elcatonin?
Reported side effects include nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort, flushing and facial warmth, injection site reactions, rare hypersensitivity reactions. Evidence level for this compound is well studied.
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Educational use only, not medical advice. This profile is provided for research and educational purposes. Elcatonin may be a research compound or a prescription medication; nothing here is intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dosing figures reflect commonly-published research ranges, not a prescription. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any health decision. Read the full disclaimer →