[Medical treatment of primary hyperparathyroidism: role of calcimimetics].

Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is a common endocrinological process, characterized by chronic elevation of serum concentrations of calcium and parathyroid hormone (PTH). The only intervention able to cure the disease is parathyroidectomy. However, there are few valid medical alternatives for patients whose PHPT is unresolved by surgery, or in those with contraindications for surgery or who refuse the procedure. The discovery of calcium-sensing receptors (CaSRs), which regulate PTH secretion according to extracellular calcium concentrations, has allowed specific anti-parathyroid drugs called calcimimetics to be designed. Cinacalcet is an allosteric modulator of CaSR that has demonstrated safety and efficacy in controlling serum calcium values and in reducing PTH levels in patients with PHPT. The exact role of calcimimetics in the overall management of PHPT is promising and should be considered in future clinical practice guidelines.