fermagate

Fermagate is a calcium-free, iron and magnesium hydroxycarbonate inorganic phosphate binder developed for the control of blood plasma phosphate, primarily in patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing dialysis. It consists of magnesium and ferric iron atoms held in an insoluble, rigid, crystalline-layered structure with carbonate groups between the layers. Upon oral administration, the carbonate ions are exchanged for free phosphate ions released from food in the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in strong binding of dietary phosphate and inhibition of its uptake. This mechanism lowers serum phosphate levels and helps prevent hyperphosphatemia. Fermagate has shown efficacy in reducing serum phosphate levels compared to placebo and other binders such as sevelamer hydrochloride. The drug is being developed by OPKO Renal (formerly Cyctochroma), part of OPKO Health, with earlier development by INEOS Silicas[1][2][3][4][5][6][7].

Brand names

AlpharenMacrosorb MD

Other names

iron-magnesium hydroxycarbonatemagnesium ferric hydroxycarbonate