Lanthanum Carbonate
Uses of Lanthanum Carbonate
Lanthanum Carbonate is used to control high blood phosphate levels (hyperphosphataemia) in people with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), including those on dialysis. It works by binding to phosphate from food, preventing it from being absorbed into the bloodstream.
Lanthanum Carbonate is commonly used for:
• Hyperphosphataemia in end-stage renal disease (ESRD): Lowers elevated blood phosphate levels in people with ESRD.
• Hyperphosphataemia in dialysis patients: Helps control phosphate levels in people undergoing haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis, who cannot remove excess phosphate through their kidneys.
• Prevention of complications linked to high phosphate: Helps reduce the risk of bone and cardiovascular problems associated with long-term high phosphate levels in kidney disease.
Side effects of Lanthanum Carbonate
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Abdominal pain
Constipation
How Lanthanum Carbonate works
Lanthanum Carbonate works by preventing dietary phosphate from being absorbed into the body.
Normally, phosphate from food is absorbed through the gut and passed into the bloodstream. In people with chronic kidney disease, the kidneys cannot remove excess phosphate effectively, causing it to build up in the blood.
Lanthanum Carbonate works in the stomach and intestine, where it binds tightly to phosphate from food, forming a compound that cannot be absorbed. This bound phosphate then passes out of the body in the stool rather than entering the bloodstream.
By reducing the amount of phosphate absorbed, Lanthanum Carbonate helps keep blood phosphate levels within a safer range, which is important for bone and cardiovascular health in people with kidney disease.
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Written By
Doctor of Medicine
Reviewed By
BAMS, FMC, MD Resident
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
Lanthanum Carbonate is available in the form of chewable tablets.
Age and Dose Restrictions
This medication is intended for use in adults and children above the age of 18 years.
Contraindications
Lanthanum Carbonate is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of the medicine.
The medicine should not be used by patients with acute peptic ulcer, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease or bowel obstruction.
Other Medications to Avoid
Lanthanum Carbonate can interact with tetracycline antibiotics (such as doxycycline and minocycline), thyroid hormones (like levothyroxine, liothreonine) and chloroquine a medicine used to treat malaria.
Overdose and Missed Dose
- Taking more than the prescribed dose of Lanthanum Carbonate may cause headache, nausea, vomiting, or other gastrointestinal symptoms. If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately.
If you miss a dose of Lanthanum Carbonate, take it with your next meal as usual. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one. Lanthanum Carbonate should always be taken with or immediately after food, as prescribed by your doctor.
Management of Side Effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve after discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Drinking plenty of water can help manage some of the gastrointestinal side effects like constipation or diarrhoea.
In case of nausea or vomiting, try taking this medicine with meals.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
Lanthanum Carbonate does not typically affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. However, if you feel dizzy or unwell after taking this medicine, avoid such activities until you feel better.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
The use of Lanthanum Carbonate during pregnancy and lactation is not well studied. Therefore, it should only be used if the potential benefits justify any possible risks to the fetus or infant.
Caution in Other Conditions
Caution should be exercised in patients with hepatic impairment as the elimination of Lanthanum Carbonate may be reduced.
Regular monitoring of lanthanum levels is recommended in these patients.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
Regularly monitor your blood phosphate levels. Follow all medical appointments and laboratory tests as recommended by your doctor.
Maintain good hydration. Drink plenty of fluids unless otherwise advised by your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lanthanum Carbonate a natural product?
No, Lanthanum Carbonate is not a natural product. It is a medication synthesised in the lab, using the rare earth element, lanthanum.
Can Lanthanum Carbonate cause mood changes?
Lanthanum Carbonate is not associated with causing mood changes. It is mainly used to lower phosphate levels in patients with kidney disease and has no known direct effects on mood or mental health.
Is there a risk of becoming dependent on Lanthanum Carbonate?
Lanthanum Carbonate is not associated with a risk of dependency. However, if you have specific concerns, it's best to consult a doctor.
Is Lanthanum Carbonate a type of steroid?
No, Lanthanum Carbonate is not a steroid. It is a type of medicine known as a phosphate binder.
Does Lanthanum Carbonate cause weight gain?
Lanthanum Carbonate is not commonly associated with weight gain. If you notice unexpected weight changes, it's a good idea to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Is Lanthanum Carbonate safe for long-term use?
Yes, Lanthanum Carbonate is considered safe for long-term use under the supervision of a doctor. Regular monitoring and blood tests are recommended to ensure the medicine's effectiveness and to make any necessary dosage adjustments.
Are there any natural alternatives to Lanthanum Carbonate?
There are no known natural alternatives that have the same function as Lanthanum Carbonate. Always consult your doctor before starting any new medication or supplement.
List of medicines for Lanthanum Carbonate
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