Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

 This is Cinacalcet. It helps treat high levels of calcium in the blood. It also helps treat a condition called 'secondary hyperparathyroidism' that is often caused by chronic kidney disease.

You should take Cinacalcet with food, or shortly after a meal. You should always swallow the tablet whole, and do not split it. You should take Cinacalcet exactly as your doctor tells you to. 

Most people tolerate this medicine well. Common side effects include nausea and vomiting. These effects are normal if they are mild and should go away. Call your doctor if they are severe, as they might be signs of a more serious condition.

As with any medicine, more serious side effects could occur. With Cinacalcet, this includes low calcium. You should watch for symptoms of low calcium, like numbness, tingling, muscle pain, and muscle cramps.  Call your doctor if they occur. Also, be sure to let your doctor know if you have had any seizures in the past.  To help keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will follow your condition closely. Also, your doctor will order blood tests to measure your levels.

Drug interactions can occur with this medicine. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medicines.

Women should check with their doctors before becoming pregnant or breastfeeding.

For best results with Cinacalcet, you should work closely with your doctor to understand how this medicine and your condition can affect your calcium levels.