AstraZeneca (NASDAQ:AZN) plc has announced the discontinuation of its Phase III STABILIZE-CKD and DIALIZE-Outcomes trials, which were investigating treatments for chronic kidney disease (CKD) due to prolonged enrolment periods and low event rates. Despite this setback, the pharmaceutical giant reaffirms its commitment to addressing hyperkalaemia, a condition commonly associated with CKD, through its globally approved potassium binder, Lokelma.

Sharon Barr, Executive Vice President of BioPharmaceuticals R&D at AstraZeneca, assured that Lokelma maintains a strong safety profile and continues to deliver substantial benefits to patients dealing with hyperkalaemia. The drug is currently approved in 56 countries around the world.

AstraZeneca has also committed to ensuring that patients from the halted trials will continue to receive follow-up care. The company’s CVRM (Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism) sector remains focused on advancing treatments that protect organs affected by cardiorenal diseases and is working towards the development of regenerative therapies in this field.