Sensipar

The active ingredient in Sensipar is cinacalcet hydrochloride, which is a calcimimetic agent. The mechanism of action is to lower PTH levels by acting on calcium-sensing receptors on the parathyroid gland. High PTH levels promote calcium to move from the bones to the bloodstream, so lowering PTH can help lower high serum calcium levels.

Sensipar is not for use in pediatric patients.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Sensipar. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Sensipar:

• Sensipar should be used exactly as prescribed.
• Depending on what is being treated, Sensipar is typically taken once or twice daily with food. Tablets must be taken whole. The dose you take will be adjusted based on your lab values and blood tests. If the dose does need to be titrated, it will be done so gradually, typically over a 2 to 4 week period until your exact maintenance dose is established.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

The most common side effects of Sensipar seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Sensipar. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Signs of hypocalcemia or low blood calcium levels, such as muscle pains or abnormal sensations such as a numbing, burning, or tingling sensation, muscle spasms, and seizures.
• Signs of a stomach bleed or ulcers, such as stomach pain, blood in stools or stools that appear dark and tarry, or blood in vomit or vomit that resembles coffee grounds.
• Signs of worsening heart failure, such as shortness of breath, activity intolerance, or unexplained weight gain.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Sensipar. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Sensipar, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Hypocalcemia or low blood calcium levels
• A history of or current gastrointestinal bleeding
• Hypotension or low blood pressure
• Heart failure
• Liver problems
• Arrhythmias or abnormal heart rhythms
• Adynamic bone disease
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant

Do not use Sensipar if you have very low calcium levels.

It can take a couple of weeks of regular use to see the effects of cinacalcet. Your healthcare provider will regularly monitor your lab values and blood work to make sure this medication is working for you. They might need to adjust your dose every 2 to 4 weeks based on these results.

When Sensipar is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Ketoconazole
• Itraconazole
• Desipramine
• Metoprolol
• Carvedilol
• Flecainide
• TCAs

Sensipar is available as 30 mg, 60 mg, and 90 mg tablets.

Sensipar should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture, and out of reach of children.

It is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Amgen.

Yes, a generic is available for the brand-name Sensipar.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while taking Sensipar.

It is unknown if Sensipar is safe in pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is unknown if Sensipar passes into the breast milk or has an impact on lactation. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.