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Sensipar

Introduction

Primary hyperparathyroidism is a disorder of the parathyroid glands, also called parathyroids. "Primary" means this disorder originates in the parathyroids: One or more enlarged, overactive parathyroid glands secretes too much parathyroid hormone (PTH). In secondary hyperparathyroidism, a problem such as kidney failure causes the parathyroids to be overactive. This publication focuses on primary hyperparathyroidism.

What are the parathyroid glands?

The parathyroid glands are four pea-sized glands located on the thyroid gland in the neck. Occasionally, a person is born with one or more of the parathyroid glands embedded in the thyroid, in the thymus, or located elsewhere around this area. In most such cases, however, the glands function normally.

Though their names are similar, the thyroid and parathyroid glands are entirely different glands, each producing distinct hormones with specific functions. The p...

Sensipar

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Sensipar Drug Center

Medical Editor: John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP

Sensipar (cinacalcet) is used to treat hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid glands) in people who are on long-term dialysis for kidney disease. It is also used to lower calcium levels in people with cancer of the parathyroid gland. Sensipar is a calcimimetic agent that decreases levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, and phosphorous in the body. Common side effects include nausea or vomiting.

The recommended starting oral dose of Sensipar is 30 mg once daily. Sensipar may interact with chloroquine, conivaptan, diclofenac, imatinib, isoniazid, bladder medications, antibiotics, antidepressants, antifungal medications, ADHD medications, cancer medicines, cough medicine, heart or blood pressure medications, HIV/AIDS medicines, medicine to treat psychiatric disorders, or narcotic pain medications. Tell your doctor all medications you are taking. During pregnancy, Sensipar should be used only when prescribed. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Our Sensipar (cinacalcet) Drug Center provides a comprehensive view of available drug information as well as related drugs, user reviews, supplements, and diseases and conditions articles.

What is Prescribing information?

The FDA package insert formatted in easy-to-find categories for health professionals and clinicians.

Sensipar Prescribing Information: Indications & Dosage

Sensipar® (cinacalcet) Structural Formula Illustration

Secondary Hyperparathyroidism

Sensipar (cinacalcet) is indicated for the treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism (HPT) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on dialysis [see Clinical Studies].

Parathyroid Carcinoma

Sensipar (cinacalcet) is indicated for the treatment of hypercalcemia in patients with parathyroid carcinoma [see Clinical Studies].

Primary Hyperparathyroidism

Sensipar (cinacalcet) is indicated for the treatment of severe hypercalcemia in patients with primary HPT who are unable to undergo parath...

Read the complete drug monograph for Sensipar »

What is Patient information?

Easy-to-read and understand detailed drug information and pill images for the patient or caregiver from Cerner Multum.

Sensipar Patient Information: Side Effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

  • numbness or tingly feeling around your mouth, fast or slow heart rate, muscle tightness or contraction, overactive reflexes;
  • seizure (convulsions);
  • feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion;
  • swelling, rapid weight gain; or
  • feeling like you might pass out.

Less serious side...

Read the complete patient information for Sensipar »

What is Consumer information?

A concise overview of the drug for the patient or caregiver from First DataBank.

Sensipar Consumer Information: Uses

Cinacalcet is used to treat increased amounts of a certain hormone (parathyroid) in people with long-term kidney disease who are on dialysis. It is also used to treat increased amounts of calcium in people with an overactive parathyroid gland or in people with cancer of the parathyroid gland. Cinacalcet works by decreasing the amount of parathyroid hormone, calcium, and phosphorus in your body. Having the right amount of these substances in your body helps to prevent bone disease.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with food or shortly after ...

Read the complete consumer information for Sensipar »

What is Sensipar Consumer Information?

Warnings - Uses - How to Use - Side Effects - Precautions - Drug Interactions and More

Sensipar - User Reviews

Sensipar User Reviews

Now you can gain knowledge and insight about a drug treatment with Patient Discussions.

Here is a collection of user reviews for the medication Sensipar sorted by most helpful. Patient Discussions FAQs

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

 

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.


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