calcitonin

[kal-si-toh-nin]

noun

Biochemistry.

1. a polypeptide hormone that participates in the regulation of calcium levels in vertebrates by inhibiting loss of calcium from bone to the blood.

calcitonin

/ ˌkælsɪˈtəʊnɪn /

noun

1. Also called: thyrocalcitonin. a hormone secreted by the thyroid that inhibits the release of calcium from the skeleton and prevents a build-up of calcium in the blood Compare parathyroid hormone

calcitonin

1. A peptide hormone secreted by the thyroid gland that stimulates bone formation and lowers blood calcium and phosphate levels.

Word History and Origins

Origin of calcitonin¹

First recorded in 1960–65; calci- + tone + -in ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of calcitonin¹

C20: from _calci- + _ton ( _ic ) + _-in

Example Sentences

Oral medications that affect the same calcitonin gene-related peptide pathway have now become available.

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These cells release calcitonin, a hormone that regulates the levels of calcium and bone-building phosphorus in the blood.

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The arrival of therapies targeting calcitonin gene-related peptide and its receptor is rightly seen as a highlight of recent years, and many hope that the approach will yet yield greater benefits.

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I lost my sense of smell 15 years ago after my doctor prescribed calcitonin nasal spray for low bone density.

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They said he provided or helped gain access to prescription-dose vitamin D; calcitonin; ferrous sulfate; Advair; testosterone; and various thyroid medications.

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