Calcimimetics for the Treatment of Secondary Hyperparathyroidism in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients

Secondary hyperparathyroidism is a common complication in patients with end-stage renal disease. It has been associated with increased cardiovascular events and mortality. Traditional therapy has been based on vitamin D analogs and phosphate binders; but these therapies often do not control secondary hyperparathyroidism, particularly in peritoneal dialysis patients for whom phosphate clearances are limited and intravenous vitamin D is impractical. Cinacalcet, a calcimimetic, suppresses parathormone secretion by interacting with the calcium-sensing receptor on the surface of parathyroid gland cells. The resulting suppression of parathyroid hormone secretion produces a reduction in serum phosphate level and CaxPO 4 product. The present paper reviews the efficacy of cinacalcet in the management of secondary hyperparathyroidism in peritoneal dialysis patients.