Introduction:
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is frequently associated with anemia, primarily due to the progressive deterioration of renal parenchyma and a relative deficiency in erythropoietin production. Desidustat, a hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor, promotes endogenous erythropoietin production, offering a potential therapeutic option for anemia management in CKD. This study aimed to evaluate the effectreal-world experience of Desidustat in managing anemia among CKD patients in Northeast India.
Methods:
This observational study enrolled 149 patients diagnosed with CKD-associated anemia. All participants were initiated on Desidustat therapy at a dosage of 100 mg, administered thrice weekly. Patients were followed monthly to assess changes in hemoglobin (Hb) levels, with Desidustat doses adjusted based on individual Hb responses. Concurrent oral or intravenous iron supplementation was provided to address iron deficiency.
Results:
The mean age of 59.28 ± 11.53 years, with 97 males (65.1%) and 52 females (34.9%). In CKD staging 34.9% at stage 3, 35.57% at stage 4, 21.48% at stage 5, and 6.04% at stage 5D. Comorbidities were prevalent, with 66.44% of patients having diabetes and 89.93% diagnosed with hypertension. Majority of the patients in current were Non-Dialysis dependent. Desidustat therapy resulted in a consistent increase in Hb levels across follow-ups. The mean Hb increase from baseline was 1.63 ± 1.17 g/dL, which was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Dose adjustments were necessary for 23 patients due to Hb overshooting above 12 g/dL, leading to a reduction in Desidustat dosage from 100 mg to 50 mg thrice weekly. All patients demonstrated high compliance with the therapy.
Conclusions:
This real-world study suggests that Desidustat is a safe and effective alternative to erythropoietin for managing anemia in CKD patients providing similar efficasy. The oral route of Desidustat increases patient convenience.
I have no potential conflict of interest to disclose.
I did not use generative AI and AI-assisted technologies in the writing process.