Sevelamer (By Mouth)

Sevelamer (se-VEL-a-mer)

Lowers the amount of phosphorus in blood of people receiving kidney dialysis.

Brand Name(s):

Renagel
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to sevelamer, if you have low levels of phosphates in your blood (hypophosphatemia), or if you have a blockage in your intestines.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• It is best to take this medicine with meals.
• Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush, chew, break, or open.

If a dose is missed:

• The medicine works when there is food in your stomach. If you forget to take your medicine and you have just eaten a meal in the past hour, take the medicine right away. Take your next dose at your regularly scheduled time.
• If it has been more than 1 hour since your last meal or if it is almost time for your next meal, skip the missed dose. Then take your next dose at your regular time.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking medicine to treat seizures or an irregular heartbeat.
• If you are taking any other medicines, take them at least one hour before or three hours after you take sevelamer. If you need help deciding the best times to take your other medicines, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have trouble swallowing, severe constipation, stomach problems, or have had surgery on your digestive system.
• Carefully follow any special diet that your doctor gives you.
• Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Fever, chills, sore throat
• Upset stomach, gas, indigestion
• Vomiting

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Bloating or stomach discomfort
• Headache

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.