Compare Rocaltrol vs. Sensipar

Calcitriol (Rocaltrol) and cinacalcet (Sensipar) are both used to manage calcium levels in the body, but they have some key differences. Calcitriol is a vitamin D analog that helps your body absorb more calcium, raising blood calcium levels. It's commonly used for low calcium in people with kidney issues or parathyroid problems. On the other hand, cinacalcet is a calcimimetic that lowers parathyroid hormone levels, which in turn lowers calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood. It's used for high calcium levels due to overactive parathyroid glands, often in people with chronic kidney disease or parathyroid cancer. Calcitriol is taken once daily and requires frequent blood tests to monitor calcium levels. Cinacalcet is taken with food, typically once or twice daily, and also requires regular blood work to ensure calcium levels don't drop too low. Both medications are available in generic forms, but they have different side effects and risks. Calcitriol can cause high calcium levels, leading to symptoms like muscle weakness and stomach upset, whereas cinacalcet can cause low calcium levels, leading to muscle pain, spasms, and potential heart issues.