Acute Effects of Cinacalcet on Arterial Stiffness and Ventricular Function in Hemodialysis Patients

Acute Effects of Cinacalcet on Arterial Stiffness and Ventricular Function in Hemodialysis Patients

The primary objective is to determine whether reduction of serum calcium concentration by cinacalcet leads to reduction of mean blood pressure adjusted c-fPWV. The secondary objectives are to study the effects of calcium reduction on 1) carotid-radial PWV (c-rPWV), 2) common carotid artery (CCA) biomechanics, 3) pulse wave profile and cardiac function.

Inclusion Criteria:

• chronic (> 3 months) hemodialysis population of > 18 years old
• PTH > 300 ng/L
• corrected Ca > 2.10 mmol/L
• stable hypertensive drugs (> 1 month)
• stable doses of phosphate binders and dialysis calcium concentration
• palpable femoral pulse
• systolic BP of 90-180 mmHg
• expected survival of > 6 months

Exclusion Criteria:

• hemodialysis > 3 years
• acute infection
• history of myocardial infarction or stroke within the past 3 months
• inability to consent
• intolerance to cinacalcet
• inadequate birth control