Magnesium retards the progress of the arterial calcifications in hemodialysis patients: a pilot study.

Background: The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of magnesium (Mg) on the evolution of arterial calcifications in hemodialysis patients.

Patients And Methods: Seventy-two stable hemodialysis patients were randomly allocated to two groups: 36 administered a regimen containing magnesium carbonate plus calcium acetate as a phosphate binder (Mg group), while the rest 36 received calcium acetate alone (Ca group). The presence and the progression of arterial calcifications were evaluated in plain X-rays using a simple vascular calcification score.