Cinacalcet

Generic Name: cinacalcet

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Cinacalcet

Cinacalcet is a calcimimetic agent that modulates the calcium sensing receptor, indicated for secondary hyperparathyroidism in dialysis patients with chronic kidney disease, hypercalcemia in parathyroid carcinoma, and severe hypercalcemia in primary hyperparathyroidism.

Overview

Cinacalcet is a calcimimetic agent that modulates the calcium sensing receptor, indicated for secondary hyperparathyroidism in dialysis patients with chronic kidney disease, hypercalcemia in parathyroid carcinoma, and severe hypercalcemia in primary hyperparathyroidism.

Uses

Treats secondary hyperparathyroidism in dialysis patients with chronic kidney disease, hypercalcemia in parathyroid carcinoma patients, and severe hypercalcemia in primary hyperparathyroidism patients unable to undergo parathyroidectomy.

Dosage

Starting dose is 30 mg once daily. Titrate dose no more frequently than every 2 to 4 weeks for secondary HPT on dialysis. For parathyroid carcinoma and primary HPT, begin with 30 mg twice daily and titrate every 2-4 weeks. Take tablets whole with food or shortly after meals.

Side Effects

Most common adverse reactions include nausea and vomiting (25% or more incidence). Additional reactions include diarrhea, myalgia, dizziness, and hypocalcemia.

Interactions

Cinacalcet is a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor requiring dose adjustments for medications metabolized by this enzyme. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors like ketoconazole increase cinacalcet exposure by 127%.

Warnings

Life threatening events and fatal outcomes reported related to hypocalcemia. Additional warnings address upper gastrointestinal bleeding risk, hypotension, worsening heart failure, arrhythmias, and adynamic bone disease. Contraindicated if serum calcium is less than the lower limit of normal range.

Pregnancy

Animal studies showed no teratogenicity at recommended doses. Limited human data available. Higher animal exposures produced maternal hypocalcemia-related fetal effects.

Storage

Store at 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Excursions permitted from 15 to 30 degrees C.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cinacalcet used for?

Treats secondary hyperparathyroidism in dialysis patients with chronic kidney disease, hypercalcemia in parathyroid carcinoma patients, and severe hypercalcemia in primary hyperparathyroidism patients unable to undergo parathyroidectomy.

What are the side effects of Cinacalcet?

Most common adverse reactions include nausea and vomiting (25% or more incidence). Additional reactions include diarrhea, myalgia, dizziness, and hypocalcemia.

Can I take Cinacalcet during pregnancy?

Animal studies showed no teratogenicity at recommended doses. Limited human data available. Higher animal exposures produced maternal hypocalcemia-related fetal effects.

What are the important warnings for Cinacalcet?

Life threatening events and fatal outcomes reported related to hypocalcemia. Additional warnings address upper gastrointestinal bleeding risk, hypotension, worsening heart failure, arrhythmias, and adynamic bone disease. Contraindicated if serum calcium is less than the lower limit of normal range.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.