Comparison
Calcitonin (Lachs) vs. Octreotide
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
83150-76-9
Molecular weight
3431.85 g/mol
1019.24 g/mol
Half-life
1 h
1.7 h
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-NH2D-Phe-Cys-Phe-D-Trp-Lys-Thr-Cys-Thr(ol)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.
Octreotide
Octreotide is a cyclic octapeptide that selectively binds somatostatin-receptor subtypes SSTR2 and SSTR5. Via G-protein-coupled signalling, adenylyl cyclase is inhibited, reducing the secretion of multiple hormones (growth hormone, IGF-1, glucagon, insulin, VIP, serotonin). Structural stabilisation via a disulfide bridge and D-amino acids extends the half-life relative to natural somatostatin (minutes to several hours).
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human RCT
Studies
4
5
of which in humans
4
4
Effects recorded
4
3
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
2
2
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Calcitonin (Lachs) and Octreotide?
- Calcitonin (Lachs) is classified as "Research other", while Octreotide 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. Octreotide: Synthetic octapeptide somatostatin analog with a longer half-life than endogenous somatostatin. FDA- and EMA-approved since the 1980s for acromegaly and neuroendocrine tumours. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Calcitonin (Lachs) or Octreotide?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Calcitonin (Lachs) and "Human RCT" for Octreotide. 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 Octreotide in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Calcitonin (Lachs) — Prescription, Octreotide — Prescription. United States: Calcitonin (Lachs) — Prescription, Octreotide — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.