Objective To review the effect of calcitonin on cartilage and subchondral bone of osteoarthritis. Methods Recent l iteratures about the effect of calcitonin on osteoarthritis was reviewed. Results Calcitonin could promotethe synthesis of important cartilage matrix such as proteoglycans and collagen II, propell ing the regeneration of cartilage and subchondral bone. Conclusion Calcitonin can protect articular cartilage through promoting the synthesis of cartilage and inhibiting its degradation.