The therapeutic potential of novel phosphate binders

Hyperphosphatemia and an increased serum calcium-phosphate (Ca×P) product are associated with cardiovascular mortality in adult dialysis patients. Target levels for the treatment of elevations in serum phosphorus (P) and the Ca×P product have recently been redefined, but are difficult to achieve in clinical practice. This problem may be especially prevalent in children and adolescents who have a higher recommended P intake than adults and also a higher calcium (Ca) load with the intake of comparatively higher doses of Ca-containing phosphate binders. Current treatment practice with Ca-containing P binders carries the risk of hypercalcemic episodes and ectopic calcifications, including vascular calcifications, which are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Novel P binders in the development phase include several iron-containing preparations. Clinical experience with lanthanum carbonate is limited to date and further studies are needed to establish its safety. The only available Ca-free P binder with widespread use and large-scale clinical safety data in adults is sevelamer. Preliminary data suggest that this drug can also be safely given to children.