Cinacalcet

Dosage Forms Available

• Cinacalcet is available for oral administration (tablets).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Cinacalcet is intended for use in adults, and children aged 3 and above.

Contraindications

• The use of Cinacalcet is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to any components of the product.

• Initiation of treatment with Cinacalcet is contraindicated if serum calcium levels are below the lower limit of normal.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Cinacalcet may interact with strong inhibitors of CYP2D6 (such as paroxetine, fluoxetine, and quinidine), enzymes (such as desipramine, metoprolol, and carvedilol) and strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 (like ketoconazole, and itraconazole).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Overdose symptoms may include hypotension, hypocalcaemia, nausea, and vomiting. In cases of suspected overdose, patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of these conditions.

• If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as the patient remembers. However, if it is close to the time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects seen with Cinacalcet are temporary and generally harmless. They tend to resolve by discontinuing the medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Drinking plenty of water can help manage side effects like nausea and vomiting.

• To manage dizziness or lightheadedness caused by low blood pressure, sit or lie down until the symptoms pass.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• As Cinacalcet can cause dizziness, caution is advised when driving or operating machinery.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• It should be used during these periods only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the baby. Always consult your doctor before taking this medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with a history of seizures or those taking anti-seizure medications should exercise caution while using Cinacalcet, as it may increase their risk of seizures.

• Caution should also be exercised in patients with risk factors for upper gastrointestinal bleeding, such as known gastritis, esophagitis, ulcers, or severe vomiting.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Patients with conditions causing high levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcium in the blood should ensure they are eating a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to aid in maintaining healthy bone structure.

• Regular monitoring of serum calcium levels is recommended to avoid severe hypocalcaemia.