Lanthanum carbonate is an effective hypophosphatemic agent for hemodialysis patients intolerant of other phosphate binders.

Background: Lanthanum carbonate (LC) is a noncalcium-containing phosphate binder of proven utility in treating hyperphosphatemia in dialysis patients, and displays a good tolerability profile.

Objective: This study addressed whether this tolerability profile could result in improved phosphate control in patients intolerant of other phosphate binders, and who remain hyperphosphatemic despite intensive dietary advice and adequate dialysis provision.

Design, Setting, And Patients: This 18-month study, from a large urban hemodialysis unit, studied 55 patients identified by the multidisciplinary team as fulfilling the following criteria: persistent hyperphosphatemia; intolerance of, or admitted nonadherence to, prescribed phosphate binders (either calcium-based or sevelamer); and provision of adequate dialysis (urea reduction ratio, >65%).