Calcium acetate is prescribed for chronic kidney disease to manage hyperphosphatemia by acting as a

• A. Antacid
• B. Phosphate binder
• C. Calcium supplement
• D. Diuretic

Answer: (B)

Calcium acetate works by binding phosphate in the gastrointestinal tract, so it lowers how much dietary phosphate is absorbed into the bloodstream. When taken with meals, it forms insoluble calcium phosphate that is excreted in the stool, which helps control hyperphosphatemia in chronic kidney disease. This use is different from simply acting as an antacid, a calcium supplement, or a diuretic—the primary goal here is reducing phosphate absorption, not neutralizing stomach acid, supplying calcium systemically, or increasing urine output. As a result, phosphate binders like calcium acetate are chosen to manage mineral balance, with attention to calcium levels and potential vascular calcification.