The PMDA Perspectives on New Oral Prolyl Hydroxylase Domain Enzyme Inhibitors for Renal Anemia

Prolyl hydroxylase domain enzyme (PHD) inhibitors have emerged as an alternative treatment for renal anemia in patients with impaired kidney function. Although efficacy and safety profiles are similar between PHD inhibitors and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs), the former may have benefits for patients who feel burdened by ESA therapy (e.g., frequent hospital visits and pain) and prefer oral treatment over injections. This perspective describes these issues in the medical review of PHD inhibitors in Japan.