Keryx: Zerenex reduces phosphate levels in patients on kidney dialysis

NEW YORK — Drug maker Keryx Biopharmaceuticals got promising results from a late-stage clinical trial of a drug for treating elevated phosphate levels, also known as hyperphosphatemia, in patients on kidney dialysis, the company said Tuesday.

In a phase-3 trial, Zerenex (ferric citrate) significantly reduced phosphate levels in patients with end-stage kidney disease on dialysis.

“Based on the results of this phase 3 study, it appears that the Zerenex efficacy and safety profile is emerging in a way that could make it the phosphate binder of choice for dialysis patients,” study program chairwoman and Vanderbilt University medical professor Julia Lewis said. “We are very excited to have taken this step forward towards bringing Zerenex to the patients who are in need of additional alternatives to the existing phosphate binders.”