Compounds having activity for lowering parathyroid hormone levels are described. In one embodiment, the compounds are comprised of a contiguous sequence of subunits, X1 - X2 - X3 - X4 - X5 - X6 - X7, wherein the X1 subunit comprises a thiol-containing moiety and the distribution of charge on the X2-X7 subunits provides the desired activity. Methods of using the compounds for treating hyperparathyroidism, bone disease and/or hypercalcemic disorders are also described, and in particular, methods for lowering plasma PTH and serum calcium are provided. The compounds can be used to treat subjects having, for example: primary, secondary or tertiary hyperparathyroidism； hypercalcemia of malignancy； metastatic bone disease； or osteoporosis.
