Cinacalcet
Cinacalcet is a calcimimetic agent that lowers parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels by increasing the sensitivity of calcium-sensing receptors on parathyroid gland cells. It is primarily used to treat secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with chronic kidney disease on dialysis, as well as hypercalcemia associated with parathyroid carcinoma and primary hyperparathyroidism when surgery is not an option. By reducing PTH secretion, it helps manage calcium and phosphate metabolism.
Cinacalcet is a calcimimetic medication that lowers PTH levels by enhancing calcium-sensing receptor activity, used primarily for secondary hyperparathyroidism in dialysis patients and hypercalcemia from parathyroid disorders.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- H05BX01
- RxNorm
- 407990
- Generic
- Cinacalcet
- Class
- atc-h05
- Brands
- Sensipar
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on dialysis; hypercalcemia in patients with parathyroid carcinoma; severe hypercalcemia in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism who cannot undergo parathyroid surgery.
Cinacalcet directly binds to and activates calcium-sensing receptors (CaSR) on parathyroid chief cells, increasing their sensitivity to extracellular calcium. This leads to suppressed PTH synthesis and secretion, ultimately lowering serum calcium and PTH levels.
Monitor serum calcium levels regularly (especially during initiation and dose adjustments); may cause hypocalcemia, nausea, vomiting, and myalgia; use with caution in patients with seizure disorders; not recommended for use in patients with end-stage renal disease not on dialysis.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy