Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
What is Ferric Citrate?
Ferric citrate 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.
Ferric citrate is used to control phosphorus levels in adults with chronic kidney disease who are on dialysis.
Ferric citrate is also used to treat iron deficiency anemia in adults with chronic kidney disease who are not on dialysis.
Ferric citrate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use ferric citrate if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
- iron overload disorder (hemochromatosis).
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- liver disease;
- a stomach or intestinal disorder;
- stomach bleeding; or
- 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.
How should I use Ferric Citrate
Use Ferric Citrate (Auryxia) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
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.
Ferric citrate works best if you take it with meals.
Do not crush or chew a ferric citrate tablet. The pill may discolor your teeth or mouth.
Ferric citrate contains iron, which is absorbed and stored by your body while you are taking this medicine. 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 ferric citrate. 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.
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.
Ferric Citrate 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.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- severe stomach problems (pain, vomiting, diarrhea); or
- high potassium--nausea, weakness, tingly feeling, chest pain, irregular heartbeats, loss of movement.
Common side effects may include:
- diarrhea, constipation;
- darker color in your bowel movements;
- nausea, vomiting, stomach pain; or
- 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.
What other drugs will affect Ferric Citrate?
Do not take a vitamin or mineral supplement that contains iron while you are taking ferric citrate, unless your doctor tells you to.
Avoid taking other medicines at the same time of day with ferric citrate.