#3408 Desidustat in CKD anemia: a single center experience

Abstract Background and Aims Chronic kidney disease (CKD) induced anemia is multifactorial. Traditionally, erythropoietin analogues and iron therapy are used to maintain hemoglobin (Hb) levels between 10–12 gm/dl. Desidustat, a newer oral agent, stimulates endogenous erythropoietin production and improves anemia. This study focuses on the outcomes of using desidustat in CKD anemia. Method This retrospective, single-center, observational study enrolled patients with CKD anemia treated with Desidustat (Oxemia®). Patients were regularly followed up for treatment response, dose changes, safety analysis, and treatment outcomes. Results A total of 171 patients were included in the study, comprising 98 males (57.31%) and 73 females (42.69%). The distribution of CKD stages among the patients was as follows: Stage II: 1 patient (0.58%), Stage III: 29 patients (16.96%), Stage IV: 35 patients (20.47%), and Stage V: 106 patients (61.99%). The treatment groups included 116 pre-dialysis patients (67.84%), 50 dialysis-dependent patients (29.24%), and 5 post-kidney transplant patients (2.92%). The dosages of desidustat administered were 50 mg in 39 patients (22.81%), 75 mg in 2 patients (1.17%), 100 mg in 114 patients (66.67%), and 150 mg in 16 patients (9.36%). There were 18 cases where dose changes were necessary: 7 cases (4.09%) required a dose decrease due to hemoglobin levels rising above 12 gm/dl, and 11 cases (6.43%) required a dose increase due to low hemoglobin levels. Specifically, 9 cases (5.26%) had their dose increased from 50 mg to 100 mg thrice weekly, and 2 cases (1.17%) had their dose increased from 100 mg to 150 mg thrice weekly. In current study we observed significant rise in Hb from baseline 7.87 gm/dl to 10.97 gm/dl with absolute change in Hb of 3.1 gm/d (P < 0.001) (Fig. 1). With desidustat therapy patients maintained renal function and stable serum Potassium levels. With desidustat therapy patients maintained good compliance, there were self-limiting adverse events observed. Conclusion This study demonstrates that desidustat is an effective and safe alternative to traditional erythropoietin analogues for treating CKD-induced anemia. The significant increase in hemoglobin levels, along with stable renal function and serum potassium levels, highlights its efficacy and safety. Patients showed good compliance with the therapy, and adverse events were self-limiting. Overall, desidustat offers a promising and convenient option for managing anemia in CKD patients.