Calcium Carbonate versus Calcium Acetate as Phosphate binder
Ph D: Neven Mohamed For many years, calcium-containing phosphate binders (calcium acetate and calcium carbonate) were considered the best choice in the treatment of hyperphosphatemia, due to they are effective, possessed only moderate side-effects and suppressed parathormone levels with the intention of counteracting progression of secondary hyperparathyroidism. In two head-to-head observational studies (CARE, ARNOS), calcium-containing binders showed signals of clinical superiority versus the comparator sevelamer-HCl. [1.2] Nevertheless, calcium may be absorbed significantly, which may result in a positive calcium balance and actively contribute progressive cardiovascular and soft-tissue calcification in patients at risk. [3]