Investigating the effects of potassium citrate on bone strength in chronic kidney disease patients

Bone In CKD Alkali Response Pilot Trial (BICARb Pilot Trial)

NIH-funded research Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-10896323

This study is looking at whether taking potassium citrate can help strengthen bones in people with chronic kidney disease, including both kids and adults, by comparing it to a placebo over six months.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAlbert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bronx, United States)
Project IDNIH-10896323 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how potassium citrate supplementation can improve bone strength in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The study will involve a 6-month randomized clinical trial with both children and adults, comparing the effects of potassium citrate to a placebo. Researchers will measure bone strength using advanced imaging techniques and assess urinary acid levels to gain insights into how potassium citrate influences bone health. The goal is to find safe and effective treatments to reduce fracture risks associated with CKD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and adults with stages 2 and 3 chronic kidney disease.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (stage 4 and 5) may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that improve bone health and reduce fracture rates in patients with chronic kidney disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with potassium citrate in improving bone health, making this approach a potentially valuable addition to CKD management.

Where this research is happening

Bronx, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.