ABSTRACT
Background: The objective was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of α-keto analogs of essential amino acids (KAA) as a supplement in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Methods: A prospective comparative study was conducted in patients of CKD of a tertiary care center of North India. Patients were randomly divided into two interventional groups. Group I (control) was advised conservative management and placebo while Group II (KAA) given conservative management along with KAA (600 mg, thrice daily) for 12 weeks. Hemogram, renal function tests, lipid profiles were done, and adverse effects were recorded at 0, 4, 8, and 12 weeks of treatment. Results: There was progressive improvement in clinical features in both groups after 12 weeks of treatment, but KAA group showed more marked improvement as compared with the control group. Both groups showed gradual improvement in the biochemical parameters as compared to their pre-treated values, which was more marked in KAA supplemented group. There was a reduction in blood glucose, blood urea, serum creatinine, and 24 h total urine protein. There was an increase in hemoglobin, 24 h total urine volume and glomerular filtration rate. KAA group showed significant (p<0.05) improvement in lipid profiles as compared with the control group. There was no statistical difference in two groups with respect to side-effects (p>0.05). Conclusion: KAA supplementation along with conservative management is efficacious and safe in preventing the progression of disease in patients of CKD.