Cinacalcet
Cinacalcet Hydrochloride Oral tablet
What is this medicine?
CINACALCET (sin a CAL set) is used to treat patients with chronic kidney disease who are on dialysis. It is also used to treat high levels of calcium in the blood of patients with certain parathyroid gland problems.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
heart failure
liver disease
low blood calcium
seizure disorder
an unusual or allergic reaction to cinacalcet, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not break, chew, or crush tablets. Take this medicine with food or right after a meal. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
thioridazine
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
erythromycin
flecainide
grapefruit juice
medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
medicines for fungal infections like fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole
medicines for pain
medicines for sleep
St. John's wort
vinblastine
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor for regular checks on your progress. Your doctor will order important blood tests while you are taking this medicine. This medicine may cause an increase or decrease in your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure as directed. Ask your doctor or health care professional what your blood pressure should be and when you should contact him or her.
This medicine alters the calcium level in your blood. You may need to be on a special diet. Talk to your health care provider about the foods you eat and the vitamins you take.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
breathing problems
bone, joint pain
changes in blood pressure
confusion, irritable
depression
hallucinations
muscle cramps, pains, spasms
seizures
unusual tingling, pain
unusually weak or tired
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
diarrhea
dizziness
loss of appetite
nausea
vomiting
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Updated:  
March 21, 2017
Sources:  
U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert