Shire launches Fosrenol in UK

Shire has announced the launch of Fosrenol (lanthanum carbonate) in the UK for patients with kidney disease on dialysis.

Fosrenolm, a non-calcium phosphate binder, has been authorised for the management of hyperphosphataemia in patients suffering from chronic renal failure who are on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) or haemodialysis.

The compound is a new treatment option for patients and aims to potentially lower the pill burden of those with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Shire noted National Kidney Federation figures showing a quarter of patients on dialysis report difficulties in taking phosphate binders, while a third admit to missing their doses at least once a week.

Dr Alastair Hutchinson, from the Manchester Institute of Nephrology & Transplantation, said: “Control of hyperphosphataemia remains an unmet clinical need in many patients with CKD, with many still having phosphate levels well above the recommended limit.”

He added that the compound provides patients with a convenient and simplified means of managing their phosphate levels.

Last November, Shire presented data to the annual meeting of the American Society of Nephrology, showing a positive effect on the bones of patients administered with Fosrenol compared to those treated with standard therapy.

Patients treated with the compound exhibited a similar level of phosphate control with other treatments, while showing lower serum calcium levels.