BioVectra Inc. has announced a long-term supply agreement with Keryx Biopharmaceuticals to manufacture Ferric Citrate, the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) in Auryxia tablets, a medicine approved for the treatment of two common complications of chronic kidney disease.

BioVectra brings over 45 years of contract development and manufacturing experience to the partnership. They have previously worked with Keryx to manufacture Ferric Citrate API since 2003. BioVectra will prepare for the anticipated growth in the long-term Ferric Citrate API supply needs by expanding production capacity at their headquarters facility in Charlottetown, PEI, Canada.

“With the recent U.S. FDA approval of Auryxia for a second indication, it is critical that we have sufficient manufacturing capacity to support anticipated future prescription demand,” said Melissa Bradford-Klug, chief business officer of Keryx Biopharmaceuticals. “BioVectra has been manufacturing the active pharmaceutical ingredient in Auryxia since 2003 and we believe they will be a great partner as we continue to expand the supply chain for Auryxia.”