The journal Kidney International, published by Blackwell on behalf of the International Society of Nephrology, just released findings from an experimental study revealing that intravenous iron therapy administered to patients with kidney disease may have negative side effects. More clinical studies need to be performed to corroborate the findings.
Dr. Richard Allen Zager, a prominent researcher who has served as a NIH funded investigator on kidney disease for the past 25 years, noted "This study will likely stimulate aggressive clinical investigation of the issues raised by the findings of this experimental paper." The study provides support for the concept that parenteral iron formulations are potentially toxic. Rather than helping patients, iron therapy may exacerbate progressive renal damage. Yet iron therapy remains essential in the treatment of patients with chronic kidney disease.
This study points out that the level of toxicity depends on the nature of the iron formula given to patients. The four types of formulations–iron dextran (INFeD from Watson Pharmaceuticals), iron sucrose (Venofer from American Regent), iron gloconate (Ferrlecit from Watson Pharmaceutics) and Feoligosaccharide (FeOS, currently in clinical trials from Pharmacosmos) – are statistically different in their toxicity in this study. In highlighting the differences in toxicity among currently used iron replacement therapies, this study could ultimately impact drug selection by physicians.
About the Author
Richard Zager, MD is a professor of medicine at the University of Washington and has been an NIH funded investigator studying kidney disease for the past 25 years. He is a prominent author in the field, having written over 130 articles published in peer-reviewed publications. He was listed as one of the Best Doctors in America in 2003-2004, and is a member of the NIH study section which reviews grant applications for funding. He currently serves on the editorial boards of Kidney International, Renal Failure, Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, and the American Journal of Medicine. For questions and interviews, please e-mail Dr. Zager at dzager@fhcrc.org.
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About Kidney International
Kidney International, published on behalf of the International Society of Nephrology, is one of the most cited journals in nephrology. Kidney International delivers current laboratory and clinical research on renal medicine. This peer-reviewed, leading international journal is the most authoritative forum for renal science and medicine. Kidney International continues to be a vital source of information for researchers around the world. For additional information on the journal, please visit http://www.blackwellpublishing.com/kid.
About the International Society of Nephrology
The International Society of Nephrology (ISN) is committed to the worldwide advancement of education, science and patient care in nephrology. This goal is achieved by means of the Society's journal, the organization of international congresses and symposia, and various outreach programs around the world. The ISN acts as an international forum on nephrology for leading nephrologists as well as young investigators, from both developed and emerging countries. Further information is available at http://www.isn-online.org.
About Blackwell Publishing
Blackwell Publishing is the world's leading, independent society publisher with offices in the US, UK, Japan, Denmark, Australia, and Germany. Blackwell publishes over 700 journals in partnership with more than 550 academic and professional societies. For more information, please visit http://www.blackwellpublishing.com.
1. National Kidney Foundation; Are You At Increased Risk for Chronic Kidney Disease? http://www.kidney.org. New York, 2002
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Journal
Kidney International