Effect of bixalomer on coronary artery calcification in hemodialysis patients with hyperphosphatemia: a multi-center, randomized controlled trial

Background Calcium carbonate is a first-line therapy for hyperphosphatemia in hemodialysis patients but is associated with progressive coronary and aortic calcification. Sevelamer compounds are alternatives to calcium-containing phosphate binders as they contain lower calcium levels. The sevelamer compound, bixalomer, is a calcium-free insoluble polymer that has been shown to be effective and safe in comparison with calcium carbonate. We therefore compared the effect of bixalomer vs calcium carbonate on coronary artery calcification in hemodialysis patients with hyperphosphatemia.