What is the average half-life of parathyroid hormone (PTH)?

The average half-life of parathyroid hormone (PTH) is approximately 10 minutes. This relatively short half-life is significant in the context of calcium homeostasis in the body, as PTH plays a crucial role in regulating calcium levels by influencing both the kidneys and bones. After its secretion from the parathyroid glands, PTH acts quickly to elevate serum calcium levels; however, due to the short half-life, its actions are rapidly modulated, allowing for precise control of calcium homeostasis. This characteristic of PTH is important in clinical settings, particularly when monitoring patients with conditions like hyperparathyroidism or chronic kidney disease, where PTH levels may be altered. Understanding the half-life is essential for healthcare professionals in managing and interpreting laboratory results related to calcium metabolism.