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Updated: Aug 12, 2026

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Two Techniques to Create Hypoparathyroid Mice: Parathyroidectomy Using GFP Glands and Diphtheria-Toxin-Mediated Parathyroid Ablation
Published on: March 14, 2017
[Treatment of hypercalcemia with mithramycin]
Summary
Mithramycin effectively reduced high calcium levels in cancer patients. This treatment for hypercalcaemia, while causing some vomiting, proved beneficial in most cases.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Hypercalcaemia is a common complication of malignant diseases.
- Elevated calcium levels can lead to severe health issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of mithramycin in treating hypercalcaemia.
- To assess mithramycin's safety profile in cancer patients.
Main Methods:
- 17 patients with hypercalcaemia, predominantly due to cancer, received 1-3 daily perfusions of mithramycin (25 g/kg body weight).
- Calcium levels were monitored before and during treatment.
Main Results:
- All patients experienced a reduction in serum calcium levels.
- 12 patients achieved calcium levels below 105 mg/L; 16 patients below 110 mg/L.
- The primary side effect observed was vomiting during perfusion.
Conclusions:
- Mithramycin is an effective treatment for hypercalcaemia, particularly in patients with cancer.
- The drug demonstrates a favorable response rate with manageable side effects.
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