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Sevelamer suspension in children with end-stage renal disease

Linda F McElhiney1

  • 1Clarian Health Partners, Inc., Indianopolis, Indiana.

International Journal of Pharmaceutical Compounding
|August 27, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Sevelamer hydrochloride effectively lowers phosphorus in children with end-stage renal disease, potentially preventing vascular calcification. Compounding pharmacists are crucial for preparing this medication until FDA approval and liquid forms are available.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Pediatric Nephrology
  • Clinical Pharmacy

Background:

  • Hyperphosphatemia is a significant clinical issue in pediatric end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
  • Calcium-based phosphate binders, a common treatment, carry risks of vascular calcification.
  • Alternative phosphate binders are needed to mitigate these complications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of sevelamer hydrochloride in managing hyperphosphatemia in children with ESRD.
  • To explore the potential of sevelamer hydrochloride in preventing vascular and soft-tissue calcifications.
  • To highlight the role of compounding pharmacists in providing sevelamer hydrochloride to pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing evidence on sevelamer hydrochloride use in pediatric dialysis patients.
  • Analysis of serum phosphorus and calcium-phosphorus ion product levels.
  • Assessment of potential long-term benefits regarding calcification.

Main Results:

  • Sevelamer hydrochloride demonstrates effectiveness in reducing serum phosphorus levels.
  • It also lowers the calcium-phosphorus ion product, a key factor in calcification.
  • The drug shows promise in preventing soft-tissue and vascular calcifications.

Conclusions:

  • Sevelamer hydrochloride is an effective option for controlling hyperphosphatemia in pediatric ESRD patients on dialysis.
  • It may play a vital role in preventing calcification complications associated with ESRD.
  • Compounding pharmacists are essential for access until formal approval and liquid formulations are available.

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