[Pharmacologic intervention for vascular calcification].

In patients with chronic renal insufficiency and dialysis, phosphate retention is a major factor in the development of vascular calcification. Prevention of phosphate retention with dietary and pharmacological means may prevent vascular calcification. Current therapy for hyperphosphatemia includes the administration of phosphate binders such as calcium carbonate (or calcium acetate), ammonium-based compounds, and phosphate-binding polymers (Renagel; sevelamer hydrochloride). However, it is difficult to administrate present phosphate binders to patients because of hypocalcaemia, outright toxicity, and constipation as its side effect. It is needed to development new drugs having fewer side effects and better compliance.