Calcium acetate used as phosphate binding treatment in uremic hyperphosphatemia

Due to toxic side effects of aluminum-containing agents for treatment of uremic hypophosphatemia, much interest has been focused upon aluminum-free phosphate binder alternatives. From results of experimental studies with calcium acetate, this salt has been suggested as a possible effective and safe phosphate binder. In the present study, calcium acetate was used during a mean of 11 months for serum phosphate control in 30 uremic patients previously treated with aluminum and/or calcium carbonate. Satisfactory control of serum phosphate was achieved during the study (mean phosphate concentration +/- SE: 2.15 +/- 0.12 mmol/l compared to prestudy 2.23 +/- 0.19 mmol/l). Mean serum concentrations of calcium, alkaline phosphatase and parathyroid hormone did not change significantly during the study. Serum aluminum decreased significantly (p less than 0.01). Moderate hypercalcemia was observed in 6 patients. Calcium acetate treatment was withdrawn in 2 patients due to gastrointestinal discomfort. It is concluded that calcium acetate seems to be an effective phosphate binder alternative with relatively few side effects.