Compounds having activity for lowering parathyroid hormone levels are described. In one embodiment, the compounds are comprised of a contiguous sequence of subunits, X 1 - X 2 - X 3 - X 4 - X 5 - X 6 - X 7 , wherein the X 1 subunit comprises a thiol-containing moiety and the distribution of charge on the X 2 -X 7 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.
