Desidustat for the Treatment of Anaemia in Adult End‐Stage Kidney Disease Patients on Maintenance Haemodialysis: A Prospective Observational Study

Aim: Anaemia is a prevalent complication in patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), significantly impacting morbidity and mortality. Desidustat, a hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor, offers an alternative to erythropoiesis-stimulating agents for managing anaemia. This study aims to assess the response of haemoglobin and safety and efficacy of desidustat in ESKD patients. Methods: This prospective observational study evaluated the efficacy and safety of desidustat in 50 ESKD patients on maintenance haemodialysis. Patients received 100 mg oral desidustat thrice weekly for 6 months, with regular monitoring of haemoglobin, iron profiles, lipid profiles, and adverse effects. Results: This study demonstrated a 76% response rate to desidustat, with a mean haemoglobin rise of 0.82 g/dL (9.56% increase) over 6 months. Notably, higher baseline serum iron and ferritin levels predicted greater responses. Additionally, desidustat reduced serum ferritin, TSAT, LDL, and total cholesterol levels without impacting blood pressure. Conclusion: Desidustat demonstrated efficacy and safety in ESKD patients on haemodialysis, offering effective haemoglobin management and a favourable safety profile. These findings support desidustat as a viable treatment option for patients with anaemia, providing a valuable alternative to existing therapies.