Fermagate

**Semantic type:** Pharmacologic Substance

**Definition:** A calcium-free, iron and magnesium hydroxy carbonate and inorganic phosphate binder with phosphate lowering activity. Fermagate is made up of magnesium and ferric iron atoms held in an insoluble, rigid, crystalline-layered structure, with carbonate groups lying between the layers. Upon oral administration, the carbonate ions in fermagate are exchanged for free phosphate ions released from food in the gastrointestinal tract; thereby, strongly binding phosphate. This inhibits phosphate uptake, lowers phosphate plasma levels and preventing hyperphosphatemia.

**Synonyms:** - FERMAGATE