Generic name: ferric citrate [ fer-ik-sit-rate ]
Drug class: Phosphate binders
Dosage form: tablet, coated
Availability: Prescription only
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data available
Brand names: Ferric citrate
What is Auryxia?
Auryxia contains iron that binds to the phosphates you take in through food, which helps your body absorb fewer phosphates. This can lower the amount of phosphorus (a mineral) in your blood.
Auryxia is used to control phosphorus levels in adults with chronic kidney disease who are on dialysis.
Auryxia is also used to treat iron deficiency anemia in adults with chronic kidney disease who are not on dialysis.
Auryxia may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Keep Auryxia out of the reach of children. An accidental overdose of ferric citrate by a child can be fatal.
How should I use Auryxia
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Auryxia works best if you take it with meals.
Do not crush or chew a Auryxia tablet. The pill may discolor your teeth or mouth.
Auryxia contains iron, which is absorbed and stored by your body while you are taking Auryxia. To make sure your body is not storing too much iron, you will need frequent blood tests to check your iron levels.
You may need to follow a special diet while using Auryxia. Follow all instructions of your doctor or dietitian. Learn about the foods to eat or avoid to help control your condition.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of the reach of children. Accidental iron overdose is a leading cause of death in children younger than 6 years old.
Before Taking
You should not use Auryxia if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
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iron overload disorder (hemochromatosis).
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
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liver disease;
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a stomach or intestinal disorder;
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stomach bleeding; or
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stomach or intestinal surgery.
It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. An overdose of iron can cause miscarriage, birth defects, or pregnancy-related diabetes. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
It may not be safe to breast-feed a baby while you are using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risks.
Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing.
This medicine is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medicine (with food) as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of iron can be fatal to a child who accidentally consumes Auryxia.
What should I avoid while using Auryxia?
Do not take a vitamin or mineral supplement that contains iron while you are taking Auryxia, unless your doctor tells you to.
Avoid taking other medicines at the same time of day with Auryxia.
Auryxia side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Auryxia may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:
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severe stomach problems (pain, vomiting, diarrhea); or
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high potassium--nausea, weakness, tingly feeling, chest pain, irregular heartbeats, loss of movement.
Common side effects of Auryxia may include:
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diarrhea, constipation;
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darker color in your bowel movements;
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nausea, vomiting, stomach pain; or
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cough.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See more: Auryxia Side EffectsWhat other drugs will affect Auryxia?
If you take any of the following medicines, take them separately from your dose of ferric citrate:
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An antibiotic called doxycycline: take Auryxia at least 1 hour before you take Auryxia.
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An antibiotic called ciprofloxacin: take it at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after you take Auryxia.
Other drugs may affect Auryxia, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.