Tricarboxylic Cycle Intermediates in Combination with Calcium Phosphate Chelators and Sodium Bicarbonate Increases eGFR in Patients with Stages 3b, 4 and 5 CKD: A Retrospective Observational Study

Abstract

Introduction: Currently, the conservative management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) involves treating the primary disease and its consequences, as well as improving altered biochemical markers. Evidence suggests that the key management strategy for slowing down the progression of the disease is nephroprotection. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the supply of TCA cycle intermediates in combination with calcium carbonate, calcium lactate, and sodium bicarbonate in patients with CKD. Methodology: A retrospective observational study was undertaken in nephrology and internal medicine clinics in Mexico. The study enrolled patients aged over 18 with stages 3b, 4, and 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD) who were not undergoing renal replacement therapy (RRT) and had received treatment based on TCA therapy. Results: The study included a total of 55 patients with CKD. The results showed an increase in eGFR from a baseline average of 16.73 ± 1,374 mL/min to a final average of 19.18 ± 1,516 mL/min and a decrease in creatinine values from a baseline average of 4.26 ± 2.44 mg/dL to a final average of 3.77 ± 2.23 mg/dL. These changes had a statistical significance P?0.05.Conclusions: The observed benefits of TCA in combination with sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, and calcium lactate include: 1) Increased eGFR, 2) Decreased serum creatinine, 3) Decreased serum urea, 4) Decreased serum phosphorus, 5) Increased serum hemoglobin, and 6) Maintenance of albumin levels within normal ranges. Adjuvant therapy with the combination of TCA could be a useful tool as a new therapeutic option in patients with CKD.