Name of the Procedure:

Injection, etelcalcetide, 0.1 mg
Common Names: Etelcalcetide Injection
Technical Terms: Parathyroid Hormone Analog Injection

Summary

Etelcalcetide injection is a medical procedure in which a medication called etelcalcetide is administered via injection. This drug helps regulate calcium levels in your blood, particularly in patients undergoing dialysis for chronic kidney disease.

Purpose

The injection is used to manage secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis. The goal is to lower the levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, and phosphorus in the blood, thus reducing the risk of bone disease and vascular calcification.

Indications

• Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on hemodialysis.
• Diagnosed with secondary hyperparathyroidism.
• Elevated levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, and phosphorus not managed by other treatments.

Preparation

• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding fasting before the procedure.
• Inform the doctor about any medications you are currently taking, as some may need to be paused or adjusted.
• Blood tests may be required to measure current levels of calcium, phosphorus, and PTH.

Procedure Description

1. The injection is usually administered at the end of your hemodialysis session.
2. The healthcare provider will prepare the dose of etelcalcetide, 0.1 mg, based on your specific needs.
3. The injection is given intravenously (directly into your bloodstream) through your existing dialysis access.

Tools/Equipment:

• Etelcalcetide in an injectable form.
• Sterile syringes and needles.

Anesthesia/Sedation Details:

• Anesthesia or sedation is not typically required for this injection.

Duration

The injection itself only takes a few minutes to administer.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a dialysis center where you receive your hemodialysis treatment.

Personnel

• Dialysis Nurse

• Nephrologist (Kidney Specialist)

  Risks and Complications

  Common Risks:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Rare Risks:

• Low blood calcium levels (hypocalcemia)
• Worsening of heart issues
• Allergic reactions

Benefits

• Regulation of parathyroid hormone, calcium, and phosphorus levels.
• Reduction in complications associated with secondary hyperparathyroidism, such as bone pain and vascular issues.
• Benefits typically realized within weeks of consistent treatment.

Recovery

• No specific recovery period required; normal activities can generally be resumed immediately.
• Follow-up appointments are critical to monitor your blood levels of PTH, calcium, and phosphorus.

Alternatives

• Oral medications like cinacalcet.
• Dietary changes and phosphate binders.
• Frequent monitoring and adjustments in dialysis.

Pros and Cons:

• Oral medications may be easier to administer at home but may not be as effective for all patients.
• Etelcalcetide injection is effective and can be administered during routine dialysis but requires medical supervision.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel a slight pinch or discomfort at the injection site.
• Most experience minimal side effects, but those who do may report gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Pain management is minimal, as the procedure is relatively simple and quick.

Overall, etelcalcetide injection is a targeted therapy aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals managing secondary hyperparathyroidism due to chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis.