What is it about?
In the VICTORY randomized trial, we compared the effects of two drugs, etelcalcetide (a calcimimetic agent) vs maxacalcitol (a vitamin D receptor activator) used for high parathyroid hormone levels on calcification stress, handgrip strength, and cognition in hemodialysis patients. We found that etelcalcetide was superior in reducing calcification stress, whereas no difference was shown in the effects on handgrip strength or cognition.
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Why is it important?
Hemodialysis patients have increased calcification stress which could worsen their longevity. Also, they show higher prevalence of muscle wasting and cognitive impairment. These conditions may be due partly to vitamin D deficiency. We need effective strategies to improve these conditions.
Perspectives
In my view, the results of this trial support the choice of calcimimetics to decrease calcification stress in hemodialysis patients with high parathyroid hormone levels. But, no appreciable effect is expected on muscle strength or cognition by either drug in one year.
Tetsuo Shoji
Osaka Shiritsu Daigaku
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Comparative Effects of Etelcalcetide and Maxacalcitol on Serum Calcification Propensity in Secondary Hyperparathyroidism, Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, March 2021, American Society of Nephrology,
DOI: 10.2215/cjn.16601020.
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