Key takeaways
Lanthanum (Fosrenol) and calcium acetate are both phosphate binders used to lower phosphate levels in people with advanced kidney disease. Lanthanum is calcium-free, which means it doesn't raise calcium levels in your blood, while calcium acetate can increase calcium levels, potentially leading to serious side effects like heart rhythm problems and seizures. Lanthanum is available in both tablet and powder forms, which can be chewed or mixed with food, making it easier to take if you have trouble swallowing pills. In contrast, calcium acetate tablets and capsules should be swallowed whole, and the manufacturer doesn't specify if they can be crushed or opened. Lanthanum is generally more expensive than calcium acetate, although both are available as lower-cost generics. Both medications must be taken with meals to work effectively, but lanthanum can interfere with the absorption of other medications, requiring careful timing.
