Calcimimetics: Uses, Common Brands, and Safety Info
Calcimimetics are drugs used to treat secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with chronic kidney disease. They mimic the action of calcium and help regulate calcium, phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone levels in the body. Common brands include Cinacalcet (Sensipar or Mimpara) and Etelcalcetide (Parsabiv), which may have side effects such as nausea and headache. Regular monitoring is important to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Overview
Calcimimetics are a class of drugs that are primarily used for the treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This drug class works by mimicking the action of calcium on the parathyroid gland, which helps to reduce the production of parathyroid hormone (PTH). By controlling the levels of PTH, calcimimetics help to manage the abnormal calcium and phosphorus metabolism associated with CKD.
Uses
Calcimimetics are prescribed for individuals with CKD who have SHPT, a condition in which the parathyroid glands produce too much PTH. SHPT commonly occurs in patients with CKD due to the body's inability to regulate calcium and phosphorus levels properly. By taking calcimimetics, the excessive secretion of PTH is suppressed, which in turn helps to regulate the balance of calcium, phosphorus, and PTH within the body. In addition to treating SHPT, calcimimetics may also be used to manage hypercalcemia (high calcium levels) in patients with parathyroid carcinoma or primary hyperparathyroidism.
Common Brands
Two of the commonly prescribed calcimimetics are Cinacalcet and Etelcalcetide. - Cinacalcet (brand name Sensipar or Mimpara) is available in tablet form and is usually taken orally. It is approved for the treatment of SHPT in adult patients with CKD on dialysis, as well as for the management of hypercalcemia in patients with parathyroid carcinoma or primary hyperparathyroidism. - Etelcalcetide (brand name Parsabiv) is administered as an intravenous injection and is indicated for the treatment of SHPT in adult patients with CKD on hemodialysis.
Safety
As with any medication, it is essential to follow the prescribed dosage and consult with a healthcare professional or pharmacist regarding potential drug interactions and side effects. The use of calcimimetics may lead to common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness. It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider if these side effects persist or worsen. Calcimimetics should not be used by individuals with hypocalcemia (low calcium levels). In addition, it is important to disclose any pre-existing medical conditions or medications to your healthcare provider before starting treatment with calcimimetics. It is advisable to have regular check-ups and blood tests to monitor calcium, phosphorus, and PTH levels while taking calcimimetics to ensure their effectiveness and safety. In conclusion, calcimimetics are a class of drugs commonly prescribed for the treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with chronic kidney disease. They work by mimicking the action of calcium on the parathyroid gland and help regulate calcium and phosphorus levels in the body. Common brands of calcimimetics include Cinacalcet (Sensipar or Mimpara) and Etelcalcetide (Parsabiv). However, it is vital to discuss the use of calcimimetics with a healthcare professional to ensure safety and effectiveness.