Phosphorus binding with ferric citrate is associated with fewer hospitalizations and reduced hospitalization costs. (June 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rodby, Roger; Umanath, Kausik; Niecestro, Robert; Jackson, James H; Sika, Mohammed; Lewis, Julia B; Dwyer, Jamie P
• Is Part Of: Expert review of pharmacoeconomics & outcomes research. Volume 15:Number 3(2015)
• Page Start: 545
• Page End: 550
• Publication Date: 2015-06
• Subjects: Pharmacology -- Economic aspects -- Periodicals; 338.47615105
• DOI: 10.1586/14737167.2015.995169
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1473-7167

Abstract

<abstract> <title> <x xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <p>Background: Ferric citrate (FC) is a new phosphorus binder shown to increase serum iron stores while reducing intravenous iron and erythropoiesis-stimulating agent usage. Such reductions could lower hospitalization rates and associated costs. Methods: Hospitalizations during a Phase III trial were compared between FC and active control (AC). Hospitalization costs were estimated using the 2013 US Renal Data System Annual Data Report. Results: 34.6% of FC patients were hospitalized at least once versus 45.6% of the AC group (risk reduction 24.2%; p = 0.02). There were 181 unique hospitalizations in the FC group versus 239 in the AC group, for a difference of 58 hospitalizations. Total potential savings was US$ 867, 622 in hospitalization costs in the FC group. If the hospitalization reduction in our study was applied to the general end-stage renal disease population, this could translate into a savings of US$ 3002/patient/year. Conclusions: Patients receiving FC experienced fewer hospitalizations with the potential for significant savings.</p> </abstract>