Publication Date
Spring 4-22-2026
Presentation Length
15 minutes
College
College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences
Department
Chemistry and Physics, Department of
Student Level
Undergraduate
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Emily Moses
Presentation Type
Talk/Oral
Summary
Calcium oxalate (CaOx) kidney stone formation has prompted the development of a variety of pharmacological therapies designed to reduce the risk of crystallization by chemically modifying a patient’s urinary composition and thereby reducing urinary supersaturation of stone-forming ions. This paper reviews key drug classes that inhibit CaOx crystallization, such as citrate supplements, which bind calcium and increase pH levels within the urine, and thiazide diuretics, which act on the kidneys to increase calcium reabsorption into the bloodstream. In addition, the use of polyphenol-based compounds and gut microbiome therapies is examined for their potential roles in stone prevention. Ultimately, by focusing on the structures, mechanisms, development, and clinical use of these medicines, this review underscores how the use of certain drug classes can reduce calcium oxalate crystallization and inform future research towards more effective management.
Recommended Citation
Tidwell, Grace, "Chemical and Pharmacological Mechanisms of Calcium Oxalate Stone Inhibition: Citrate, Thiazides, and Emerging Therapies" (2026). SPARK Symposium Presentations. 852.
https://repository.belmont.edu/spark_presentations/852
