Lanthanum Carbonate
Lanthanum carbonate is a phosphate-binding medication used primarily to control high phosphate levels in patients with chronic kidney disease, particularly those on dialysis. It works by binding to dietary phosphate in the gastrointestinal tract, forming insoluble complexes that are excreted without being absorbed. This helps reduce serum phosphate and calcium phosphate product levels in the blood.
A phosphate binder that helps chronic kidney disease patients manage elevated phosphate levels by preventing absorption in the gut.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- V03AE03
- RxNorm
- 234416
- Generic
- Lanthanum Carbonate
- Class
- atc-v03
- Brands
- Fosrenol
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, powder
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of hyperphosphatemia (elevated blood phosphate levels) in patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing dialysis. It is used as part of a comprehensive approach to managing mineral metabolism in chronic kidney disease patients.
Lanthanum carbonate contains lanthanum, a trivalent cation that has a high affinity for phosphate. In the GI tract, it binds to dietary phosphate to form insoluble lanthanum phosphate complexes that cannot be absorbed. These complexes are then excreted in the feces, effectively reducing the amount of phosphate absorbed from food and lowering serum phosphate levels.
Should be taken with meals for maximum effectiveness. May interact with certain medications including antibiotics (quinolones, tetracyclines) and should be taken several hours apart. Common side effects may include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Regular monitoring of phosphate levels is important to ensure therapeutic effectiveness.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy