Velphoro (Sucroferric Oxyhydroxide)

Do’s

• Take Velphoro by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider, usually three times daily, with or right after a meal.
• The tablets are chewable and should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing each dose. You may also crush the tablets to make it easier to chew them. This medication does not need to be swallowed with water.
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it.
• Your healthcare provider may adjust the dose every 2 to 4 weeks, based on the results of blood tests that identify the amount of phosphorus in your blood. The maximum recommended dose is 6 tablets daily, divided throughout the day, with meals.
• Store this medicine in the original container at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

Don’ts

• Do not swallow the tablets whole.
• If you miss a dose, do not attempt to replace it. Instead, resume the normal dose with your next meal.

Common Side effects:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Stained teeth
• Rash
• Darkened stools

Most patients reported no side effects with Velphoro, but some individuals did experience these mild side effects which usually resolve on their own.

If you experience any side effects that bother you or do not go away, inform your healthcare provider. 

Velphoro may interfere with the absorption of other medications, such as levothyroxine and doxycycline. Keep a list of all the products you use and share it with your healthcare provider. Any changes in medication dosage should be approved by your healthcare provider.

Regular blood tests may be necessary to monitor serum phosphorus levels and to ensure the medication's effectiveness. Monitor for clinical response and/or blood levels of concomitant medications that have a narrow therapeutic range.

If you are allergic to sucroferric oxyhydroxide, you should not use Velphoro. Signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, require immediate medical attention.

Patients with peritonitis during peritoneal dialysis, significant gastric or hepatic disorders, a history of recent major gastrointestinal surgery, or a history of hemochromatosis or other diseases with iron accumulation have not been included in clinical studies with Velphoro. Monitor the effect and iron homeostasis in such patients.

These warnings and precautions are crucial for the safe and effective use of Velphoro in managing blood-phosphate levels in patients with chronic kidney disease. Always consult with your healthcare provider for complete information about the risks and benefits of using this medication.