Comparison
Calcitonin (Lachs) vs. Icatibant
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
47931-85-1
138614-30-9
Molecular weight
3431.85 g/mol
1304.52 g/mol
Half-life
1 h
no data
Sequence
Cys-Ser-Asn-Leu-Ser-Thr-Cys-Val-Leu-Gly-Lys-Leu-Ser-Gln-Glu-Leu-His-Lys-Leu-Gln-Thr-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Thr-Asn-Thr-Gly-Ser-Gly-Thr-Pro-NH2no data
Mechanism of action
Calcitonin (Lachs)
Salmon calcitonin binds the calcitonin receptor, which is particularly densely expressed on bone-resorbing osteoclasts. The literature describes that receptor activation inhibits osteoclast activity and motility, thereby reducing bone resorption. This results in reduced release of calcium and phosphate from bone into the blood, which is regarded as the mechanistic basis for the calcium-lowering effect. The salmon variant binds the receptor more strongly and for longer than human calcitonin, which explains its higher potency. Central nervous system mechanisms are additionally discussed in relation to its pain effect in fractures, the basis of which is regarded in the literature as not fully elucidated.
Icatibant
Icatibant competitively blocks the bradykinin B2 receptor. Because bradykinin mediates the vascular permeability, swelling and pain typical of hereditary angioedema, the blockade interrupts the acute attack.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human RCT
Studies
4
1
of which in humans
4
1
Effects recorded
4
1
Open conflicts
1
0
Documented adverse events
2
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Calcitonin (Lachs) and Icatibant?
- Calcitonin (Lachs) is classified as "Research other", while Icatibant is classified as "Research other". Calcitonin (Lachs): Salmon calcitonin is a synthetically produced 32-amino-acid peptide hormone that corresponds to the body's own calcitonin but exhibits higher biological potency than the human hormone. In the scientific literature it is studied in the context of inhibiting osteoclast-mediated bone resorption and lowering elevated calcium levels. It was historically broadly approved for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis; following European safety reviews, however, its use was restricted. Icatibant: Icatibant is a synthetic decapeptide and selective antagonist of the bradykinin B2 receptor. It is approved to treat acute attacks of hereditary angioedema (HAE). This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Calcitonin (Lachs) or Icatibant?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Calcitonin (Lachs) and "Human RCT" for Icatibant. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of Calcitonin (Lachs) and Icatibant in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Calcitonin (Lachs) — Prescription, Icatibant — Prescription. United States: Calcitonin (Lachs) — Prescription, Icatibant — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.