Genzyme successfully tests kidney drug

Genzyme Corp. said today it has successfully completed a study for a potential treatment for patients with chronic kidney disease.

Genzyme, a Cambridge biopharmaceutical company, has had success with Renagel, an existing treatment for patients with failed kidneys.

The testing that Genzyme discussed today focused on Renvela, a buffered variation of Renagel that Genzyme hopes can also be used to treater a larger population of patients who have kidney problems but who are not on dialysis.

In today's statement, Genzyme announced that it had recently completed a successful study of Renvela, the brand name for sevelamer carbonate.

A new drug application for Renvela is currently under review by Food and Drug Administration, Genzyme said.
(By Chris Reidy, Globe staff)