Costs for CKD-MBD Medications in Medicare Part D–Enrolled Dialysis Patients Are Rising Rapidly

The most common chronic kidney disease–mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD) medications used from 2007 to 2010 were found to be phosphate binders (83%) and intravenous vitamin D (78%-79%). Prescription phosphate-binder, intravenous vitamin D, and cinacalcet use was significantly higher for low-income subsidy than for non–low-income subsidy patients, according to the American Journal of Kidney Diseasesanalysis. CKD-MBD Part D medication costs increased 36% from 2007 to 2010, compared with a 22% increase for total Part D medication costs. For Part D–enrolled dialysis patients, CKD-MBD medications represented approximately 50% of overall net Part D costs in 2010.