SENSIPAR (CINACALCET)

Description of Sensipar

Sensipar or the generic alternative called Cinacalcet is an oral calcimimetic drug prescribed to treat the over activity of the parathyroid glands in those that have kidney disease and require long-term dialysis. Symptoms and signs of overactive parathyroid glands include fragile bones, abdominal pain, extremely frequent urination, you tire easily, and you may become forgetful or depressed. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

What Are Parathyroid Glands?

Kidney failure can cause secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) if this organ is unable to clean the blood of phosphorous made by your body and cannot make sufficient amounts of vitamin D. By increasing your parathyroid glands’ sensitivity to calcium in your body, Sensipar helps decrease levels of the parathyroid hormone (PTH), as well as calcium and phosphorous.

Conditions Treated by Sensipar

We all have four parathyroid glands, no bigger than a grain of rice, located in the neck behind the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland and the parathyroid glands are neighbors but not related and perform completely different functions. The parathyroid glands are in charge of controlling the calcium in your bones and blood. A severe calcium or vitamin D deficiency can also contribute to SHPT.

Sensipar is also used to treat hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood) in people with cancer of the parathyroid gland, and in people with overactive parathyroid glands that cannot be treated surgically. Too much calcium in your blood can weaken your bones, create kidney stones, and interfere with the way your heart and brain works. Hypercalcemia most commonly results from overactive parathyroid glands.

Before You Take Sensipar

Tell your doctor about other medical situations you are dealing with, including pregnancy and nursing, as some conditions may make it unsafe for you to take Sensipar. List all Rx drugs and over-the-counter meds you are taking and include homeopathic remedies and vitamin supplements. Combining certain medications can cause a change in their efficacy or create unintended side effects.

Important to Know When Taking Sensipar

Regular blood tests may be required while taking Sensipar to check that the dosage is correct for your situation. Do not start, stop, or alter the dosage of any meds without talking to your doctor as this can have an adverse effect on how Sensipar will work for you.

Possible Side Effects of Sensipar

• Blurred vision
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Joint pain
• Respiratory infection
• Diarrhea

Call your doctor at once if you have any of the following side effects: numbness or tingly feeling around your mouth; muscle pain, tightness, or contraction; shortness of breath; seizure or convulsion.