What is Velphoro?
Velphoro is a prescription chewable medication used to manage high phosphorus levels in the blood. It is specifically for adults who have chronic kidney disease (CKD) and are on dialysis. The active ingredient in Velphoro is sucroferric oxyhydroxide. This medication is part of a class of drugs known as phosphate binders. High phosphorus is a serious concern for patients with kidney failure. It can lead to severe bone problems and cardiovascular issues. Velphoro helps control these levels as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. This plan often includes a specific diet recommended by a healthcare provider. The goal is to keep blood phosphate within a safe range. This improves overall health outcomes for dialysis patients.
How does Velphoro work?
Velphoro works by binding to phosphate from the food you eat while it is in your digestive system. The active ingredient, sucroferric oxyhydroxide, contains iron. It acts like a magnet, attaching to dietary phosphate in the stomach and intestines. This creates a compound that your body cannot absorb. The bound phosphate then passes out of your body in the stool. As a result, less phosphorus enters your bloodstream. This process effectively lowers the overall phosphorus level in your system. By preventing phosphate absorption, Velphoro helps manage hyperphosphatemia (high blood phosphorus). This reduction in phosphorus helps protect your bones and cardiovascular system from damage.
Who is Velphoro for?
Velphoro is for adult patients with chronic kidney disease who need to control their serum phosphorus levels. It is specifically intended for those who are receiving dialysis treatments. This includes both hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. These patients’ kidneys are no longer able to filter phosphate from the blood effectively. This medication is suitable for individuals who can follow a prescribed dosing schedule with meals. It is part of a broader treatment plan that typically includes dietary restrictions. By lowering phosphorus, Velphoro helps prevent serious complications like bone pain, weak bones, and mineral deposits in soft tissues. It is an important therapy for maintaining health during long-term dialysis treatment.
Dosage and administration
Velphoro comes as a chewable tablet that should be taken with meals as directed by your doctor. The correct dosage of Velphoro depends on your individual serum phosphorus levels. Your doctor will determine the starting dose. They will then adjust it over time to reach your target phosphorus goal. It is very important to take this medication with food. The tablets must be chewed or crushed completely before swallowing. Do not swallow them whole. Crushing the tablets can make them easier to take. If you miss a dose, you should skip it and take the next dose at your next scheduled meal. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed one.
Side effects
Velphoro may cause side effects, although many people experience only mild effects or none at all. The most common side effects are related to the digestive system. They often improve as your body adjusts to the medication. Your doctor prescribed Velphoro because its benefit is greater than the risk of side effects.
Common side effects may include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Black or discolored stools
- A change in the taste of food
- Stomach discomfort or pain
- Gas and bloating
- Tooth discoloration
Black stools are a normal and harmless effect caused by the iron in Velphoro. If you experience persistent or severe side effects, you should contact your healthcare provider for advice. This list is not exhaustive.
Why buy from IsraelPharm?
IsraelPharm provides a reliable, safe, and affordable way to purchase your prescription medications online. We are a licensed pharmacy committed to high standards of patient care and safety. Our team works hard to source authentic medications, like Velphoro, at competitive prices. This helps you save money on your long-term treatment costs. We understand the importance of managing chronic conditions. Our user-friendly website makes ordering simple and convenient. Your medications are delivered discreetly and directly to your door. Our knowledgeable customer service team is available to assist you with any questions. Choose IsraelPharm for a trustworthy and cost-effective solution for your healthcare needs.
Most people using Velphoro do not have serious side effects. However, some common unwanted effects may occur, especially when starting treatment. Your doctor has determined the benefit of this medication outweighs the potential risks.
Possible side effects include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea or vomiting
- Discolored (black) stools
- Changes in taste
- Constipation or indigestion
- Stomach pain or bloating
- Tooth discoloration
- Increased fatigue
Contact your doctor if any side effects persist or become bothersome. This is not a complete list of all possible side effects. Always read the patient information leaflet.
Velphoro is indicated for the control of serum phosphorus levels in adult patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on dialysis.
It is prescribed to manage hyperphosphatemia (high phosphorus in the blood), a common complication for individuals undergoing:
- Hemodialysis
- Peritoneal dialysis