Effects of vitamin D metabolites and analogues on renal function

The long-term effects of vitamin D analogues and metabolites on renal function were assessed in 24 patients with and without chronic renal failure. Treatment for periods of 5-45 months did not adversely affect renal function in 10 of 11 patients with stable renal function, although transient hypercalcaemia did cause transient rises in plasma creatinine. Of 13 patients with progressive renal failure before treatment, vitamin D-like compounds or the vehicle used for their administration may have accelerated renal failure in 3 patients independently of changes in plasma calcium or phosphate. Particular difficulties in assessing the effects of vitamin D-like compounds in progressive renal disease are discussed.