Velphoro

The active ingredient in Velphoro is sucroferric oxyhydroxide. Since it is a phosphate binder, the mechanism of action is that it draws phosphates from the food you eat and eliminates them in your stool, much like a magnet. This helps lower phosphorus levels in people with hyperphosphatemia that are on hemodialysis (HD) or peritoneal dialysis (PD).

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Velphoro. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Velphoro:

• Velphoro is typically taken by mouth 3 times daily with meals.
• Chew or crush Velphoro tablets completely before swallowing. Do not swallow them whole.
• Regular blood tests may be required when using Velphoro.
• Your doctor will tell you your personal phosphorus goal, but a serum phosphorus level of 5.5 mg/dL or less, determined by a blood test, is a widely accepted benchmark. Your doctor may also measure your calcium blood levels while you are taking this medication.
• Velphoro must be taken with meals, so if you miss a dose, skip that dose and take it with your next meal.
• Patients with diabetes should take notice that one tablet of Velphoro is equivalent to approximately 1.4 g of carbohydrates.

The most common side effects of Velphoro seen in clinical trials include:

• Diarrhea.
• Dark feces.
• Nausea.
• Skin rash.
• Teeth discoloration.

Some individuals may experience serious adverse events while using Velphoro. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Allergic reaction to Velphoro: skin rash, hives, trouble breathing, and swelling of your face, tongue, and throat.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Velphoro. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Velphoro, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Iron accumulation disorder.
• Peritonitis (an infection) during peritoneal dialysis.
• Significant gastric or liver disorder.
• Recent major gastrointestinal (GI) surgery.
• An allergy to sucroferric oxyhydroxide.

There are no specific contraindications listed for this medication.

After a few days, Velphoro (sucroferric oxyhydroxide) will begin to reduce your blood phosphorus levels. After a week, if necessary, your doctor may change your dosage to bring your blood phosphorus levels within the usual range.

When Velphoro is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Levothyroxine should be taken at least four hours before Velphoro if you take it.
• Aspirin, cephalexin, or doxycycline should be taken at least an hour before Velphoro.
• Alendronate
• Atorvastatin.
• Doxercalciferol.
• Paricalcitol.

One pill (500 mg) taken orally three times a day with meals is the recommended starting dose.

Your doctor will change your dosage after about a week to get your blood phosphorous level within the usual range. Six tablets per day is the maximum dosage.

Take the medication as soon as you can after missing a dose, but if your next dose is close, skip the missed dose. Avoid taking two doses at once.

Store your Velphoro at room temperature and out of the reach of children.

Vifor Fresenius Medical Care North America is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Velphoro.

No, there are no generic versions available.

Because the phosphorus level in your blood may rise, do not stop taking the medication before consulting your doctor or healthcare provider.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.