NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

What is the main functionality of Calcitonin in osteoporosis treatment?

1. Increases bone resorption

2. Decreases calcium absorption

3. Inhibits bone resorption by osteoclasts

4. Enhances estrogen production

The correct answer is: Inhibits bone resorption by osteoclasts

Calcitonin plays a key role in osteoporosis treatment by inhibiting bone resorption, specifically by targeting osteoclasts. Osteoclasts are responsible for breaking down bone tissue, leading to bone loss in conditions such as osteoporosis. By inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, calcitonin helps maintain bone density and prevent further bone loss. This is why option C is the correct answer. Options A and B are incorrect because they describe actions that would worsen osteoporosis rather than improve it. Increasing bone resorption (A) and decreasing calcium absorption (B) would both contribute to bone loss and weaken bones further. Option D is also incorrect as calcitonin does not enhance estrogen production. While estrogen plays a role in bone health, especially in women, calcitonin itself directly targets bone resorption by osteoclasts, independent of estrogen production.