Last reviewed · How we verify

Fosrenol (Lanthanum Carbonate)

Shire · Phase 3 active Small molecule

Lanthanum carbonate binds to phosphate in the gastrointestinal tract, forming insoluble complexes that are eliminated in feces, thereby reducing serum phosphate levels.

Lanthanum carbonate binds to phosphate in the gastrointestinal tract, forming insoluble complexes that are eliminated in feces, thereby reducing serum phosphate levels. Used for Hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic kidney disease on dialysis, Hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic kidney disease not on dialysis.

At a glance

Generic nameFosrenol (Lanthanum Carbonate)
Also known asFOSRENOL
SponsorShire
Drug classPhosphate binder
TargetDietary phosphate (non-receptor target)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaNephrology
PhasePhase 3

Mechanism of action

Lanthanum is a rare earth element that acts as a phosphate binder in the GI tract. It dissociates to release lanthanum ions, which form highly insoluble lanthanum phosphate complexes with dietary phosphate. This prevents phosphate absorption and reduces serum phosphate concentrations in patients with chronic kidney disease and hyperphosphatemia.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

Competitive intelligence

For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape: