Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Cinacalcet as follows:
Cardiovascular side-effects
- Optimum serum calcium levels are very important for normal cardiac function. Cinacalcet, by reducing the serum calcium levels, can result in poor cardiac function, lowered heart rate, and in severe cases also lead to development of cardiac arrhythmias. Individuals can present with episodes of chest pain, rapid heart rate, palpitations, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
- Individuals with history of cardiac complaints can present with further worsening of cardiac functional status, leading to severe debility.
Gastrointestinal side-effects
- Cinacalcet use can result in common general constitutional symptoms such as, nausea and vomiting. Taking dose of Cinacalcet with a glass of water, after having some food or a snack can help avoid having unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms with the medication.
