CAMBRIDGE, Mass.—Genzyme Corp. announced April 7 that it has launched a vial formulation of Hectorol (doxercalciferol injection).
The new vial is intended to provide convenience and ease of administration for dialysis clinic healthcare professionals, according to Genzyme. It is replacing the Hectorol Injection ampule that had previously been available.
The vial is single-use, contains no latex, and can be administered without the use of a filtered needle, according to Genzyme.
Hectorol is used to treat secondary hyperparathyroidism—a frequent complication of kidney disease that is mainly caused by low calcium levels. Hyperparathyroidism can lead to weakening of the bones and other problems, including cardiovascular disease.
Genzyme’s drug is approved for use in patients with stage 3 or stage 4 chronic kidney disease using capsules, and in CKD patients on dialysis, using capsules and injection.
“The introduction of the Hectorol vial is the result of Genzyme’s commitment to the nephrology community,” said Dan Regan, senior vice president of Genzyme’s U.S. renal business and general manager of Hectorol. “We believe that Hectorol provides important benefits to patients, and want to make it as convenient as possible for health care professionals to administer.”
