Safety and effectiveness of lanthanum carbonate for hyperphosphatemia in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients: a meta-analysis

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety of lanthanum carbonate (LC) versus calcium salts, non-LC phosphate binders (PBs), sevelamer, or placebo in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
A literature search on PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases was conducted up to 18 June 2021. Data acquisition and quality assessment were performed by two reviewers. Meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the serum biochemical parameters, adverse events, and patient-level outcomes of LC, non-LC PBs, and sevelamer for hyperphosphatemia in patients with CKD. Heterogeneity across studies was assessed utilizing the I2 statistic and Q-test, and a random effect model was selected to calculate the pooled effect size.
A total of 26 randomized, controlled trials and 3 observational studies were included. Compared to the other groups, better control effect of serum phosphorus (RR = 2.68, p < 0.001), reduction in serum phosphorus (95%CI = −1.93, −0.99; p < 0.001), Ca × P (95%CI = −13.89, −2.99; p = 0.002), serum intact parathyroid hormone levels (95%CI = −181.17, −3.96, p = 0.041) were found in LC group. Besides, reduced risk of various adverse effects, such as hypotension, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dyspepsia, and a score of coronary artery calcification were identified with LC in comparison to calcium salt, non-LC PBs, or placebo group. Significantly lower risk in mortality with LC treatment vs. non-LC PBs was observed, while no significant difference was identified between LC and calcium salt groups.
LC might be an alternative treatment for hyperphosphatemia in patients with CKD considering its comprehensive curative effect.