Predialysis Vitamin D receptor activator treatment and cardiovascular events after dialysis initiation: A multicenter observational study

Background: Vitamin D receptor activator (VDRA) administration has been linked with a reduced incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, it is unclear whether VDRA administration during the predialysis stage is associated with CVD incidence after dialysis initiation in patients with chronic kidney disease. Therefore, we examined the association between VDRA use and CVD events. Methods: This multicenter observational study included 1,516 patients; they were divided into 2 groups: those who did and did not receive oral VDRA for at least 3 months before dialysis initiation. The CVD incidence was compared between these groups. Factors that impacted CVD incidence were extracted through a multivariate analysis. Subgroups were created based on prior CVD history and serum CRP levels. Results: The incidence of CVD was significantly lower in the VDRA group (log-rank test, p = 0.014). Stepwise multivariate analyses identified age, gender, diabetes, CVD history, calcium-channel blockers, beta-blockers, loop diuretics, anti-platelet agents, phosphate binders, VDRA, erythropoiesis stimulating agents, and cardiothoracic ratio as factors affecting CVD incidence. In the group with no CVD history, VDRA use was associated with a low incidence of CVD (HR 0.35). In the group with serum CRP levels <1.0 mg/dl, VDRA use was associated with a low incidence of CVD (HR 0.47). Conclusion: Administration of VDRA during predialysis was associated with a low incidence of CVD onset after dialysis initiation.