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Almost by osmosis, I have learned that Fresenius has a list of drugs that are provided to peritoneal dialysis patients under the coverage of at least Medicare if not other forms of insurance. This list has been alluded to by my dialysis nurse and dietician from time to time as a sideline or something not being on the list. That leads me to surmise just what is on this list. This blog’s purpose is to share this info with readers.

Fresenius Medical Care provides several medications and vitamins for peritoneal dialysis patients as part of their treatment regimen:

  1. Blood pressure medications to control hypertension in dialysis patients[1].
  2. Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) like Epogen, Aranesp, or Mircera treat anemia by stimulating red blood cell production[1].
  3. Iron supplements, given intravenously or orally, enhance hemoglobin production and treat anemia[1].
  4. Phosphate binders reduce phosphorus absorption from food and prevent its buildup in the body[1].
  5. Renal (kidney) vitamins replace nutrients lost during dialysis, including vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, folic acid, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, and vitamin C[1].
  6. Nutritional vitamin D to correct deficiencies common in kidney failure[1].
  7. Medications like Korsuva or Gabapentin to relieve itching (pruritus) are experienced by some dialysis patients[1].
  8. Heparin to prevent blood clots during treatment[1].
  9. Stool softeners to relieve constipation that can occur due to fluid restrictions[1].
  10. Topical creams and antihistamines for itching and dry skin[1].

Fresenius emphasizes the importance of regular medication reviews with the care team to ensure patients receive appropriate medications and dosages based on their individual needs and blood test results[1].

Citations:
[1] https://www.freseniuskidneycare.com/treatment/medications
[2] https://www.freseniusmedicalcare.com/en/peritoneal-dialysis-overview
[3] https://fmcna.com/content/dam/fmcna/live/support/documents/delflex/89-905%20-70%20-%20PATIENT%20PACKAGE%20INSERT,%20DELFLEX%20APD.pdf
[4] https://www.freseniusmedicalcare.com/en/peritoneal-dialysis-fluids
[5] https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/fresenius-taps-pre-dialysis-kidney-care-drugs-promise-treatment-change-2022-10-05/