Introduction
Keryx Biopharma is a leading biopharmaceutical company that specializes in the development of novel drugs to tackle unmet medical needs in various therapeutic areas such as renal disease, cancer, and hematology. The company’s dedication to innovation and cutting-edge research has led to the development of two FDA-approved drugs Auryxia and Ferric Citrate. Both drugs have shown amazing potential in treating chronic kidney disease and iron deficiency anemia. This article discusses the uses, dosage, side effects, interactions, generic, and demographic of Keryx Biopharma.
Uses
Auryxia (Ferric Citrate) is an oral, iron-based phosphate binder used in the treatment of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) who are on dialysis. Auryxia inhibits the absorption of dietary phosphate and, in turn, helps regulate blood phosphorus levels. Regulating blood phosphorus levels is important because high levels of phosphorus can lead to increased calcium levels that can result in bone disease. Auryxia also has the added benefit of increasing hemoglobin levels in CKD patients.
Ferric Citrate (Feraheme) is an intravenous iron replacement therapy used to treat iron deficiency anemia in adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Ferric Citrate helps replenish iron stores in CKD patients who experience iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia is a common complication of chronic kidney disease because of the decreased production of erythropoietin by the kidneys.
Dosage
Auryxia is usually taken with meals and is available in tablet form. The recommended starting dose of Auryxia is 2 tablets (2100 mg) three times per day with meals, for a total daily dose of 6 tablets (6300 mg). Auryxia should be taken with food or within 30 minutes after eating. The dosage of Auryxia may be increased or decreased depending on the patient’s phosphorus levels.
The dosage for Ferric Citrate is based on the patient’s body weight and hemoglobin levels. Ferric Citrate is administered intravenously over a period of 15 minutes. The recommended dosage of Ferric Citrate is 510 mg administered every 21 days for up to five doses.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Auryxia are diarrhea, nausea, constipation, vomiting, cough, and darkening of the stool. In rare cases, patients may experience serious side effects such as gastrointestinal bleeding, bowel obstruction, and hypersensitivity reactions.
The most common side effects of Ferric Citrate are diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and pain at the injection site. In rare cases, patients may experience serious side effects such as anaphylactic reactions, cardiac arrhythmias, and hypotension.
Interactions
Auryxia may interact with other drugs, including antibiotics, antifungals, anticoagulants, and thyroid hormones. It is important to inform your doctor of all medications you are taking before starting treatment with Auryxia.
Ferric Citrate may interact with other drugs such as NSAIDs and ACE inhibitors. It is important to inform your doctor of all medications you are taking before starting treatment with Ferric Citrate.
Generic
Keryx Biopharma’s Auryxia and Ferric Citrate are branded drugs, and no generic versions are currently available in the market.
Demographic
Auryxia is indicated for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) who are on dialysis. The prevalence of CKD is increasing globally, and it is estimated that over 700 million people worldwide have some form of the disease.
Ferric Citrate is indicated for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia in adults with CKD. Iron deficiency anemia is a common complication of CKD, affecting approximately 75% of patients on dialysis.
Conclusion
Keryx Biopharma’s Auryxia and Ferric Citrate are two FDA-approved drugs that have shown tremendous potential in treating chronic kidney disease and iron deficiency anemia. Both drugs have unique mechanisms of action and are well-tolerated by most patients. However, as with all medications, patients should be aware of possible side effects and drug interactions before starting treatment. Keryx Biopharma is committed to advancing the field of medicine through innovative research and development, and we can expect more breakthrough drugs from them in the future.