Vifor reports positive results from Ferinject study for chronic heart failure

Switzerland-based iron specialist Vifor Pharma says that its Ferinject (ferric carboxymaltose) has met its primary endpoint in Phase III tests in patients with chronic heart failure and iron deficiency.

The study looked at results over a one-year period and tested against placebo, achieving statistically significant improvement in a six-minute walk test from baseline to week 24. It also confirmed the established efficacy and safety profile.

The study aimed to assess the long-term clinical benefits of Ferinject beyond its iron repletion and anemia correction properties. In addition to meeting the primary endpoint of improvement in the walk test at week 24, the results also showed this improvement was maintained over the duration of the study. Favorable results were also obtained in secondary factors such as eficacy, patients’ functional status and quality of life. Rates of hospitalization for worsening heart failure were also lower in the Ferinject arm. These patients received 1,500mg iron during the one-year study period.