PN Adult Medical Surgical Practice Exam

What effect does calcitonin have on osteoporosis?

1. "Calcitonin will slow the breakdown of bone in your body."

2. "Calcitonin will increase the level of cortisol in your blood."

3. "Calcitonin will decrease the amount of calcium you are losing in your urine."

4. "Calcitonin will increase the blood flow to your skeletal muscles."

The correct answer is: "Calcitonin will slow the breakdown of bone in your body."

Calcitonin is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that plays a significant role in calcium and bone metabolism. It functions primarily to help regulate calcium levels in the body by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, the cells responsible for bone resorption (the process of breaking down bone tissue). When osteoclast activity is reduced, the breakdown of bone slows down, which is crucial for individuals with osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures. By slowing bone resorption, calcitonin helps to maintain or potentially increase bone density over time, contributing to better bone health in patients at risk for or suffering from osteoporosis. The other options do not correctly describe calcitonin's role; for instance, calcitonin does not increase cortisol levels, affect calcium loss in urine directly, or increase blood flow to skeletal muscles. Its primary action concerning osteoporosis is indeed the slowing of bone breakdown, making this option the most accurate in reflecting calcitonin's impact on the disease.