Renagel

 
Generic Name: sevelamer

Brands: Renagel

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What is the most important information I should know about Renagel?

· Do not open, break, crush, or chew the tablets or capsules before swallowing.

· Take Renagel with meals and follow the diet prescribed by your doctor.

· Take all other medicines at least one hour before or three hours after a dose of Renagel, under the direction of your doctor. Renagel can bind to other medications, decreasing their effectiveness.

 

What is Renagel?

· Renagel is a phosphate binder.

· Renagel is used to reduce the level of phosphorus in the blood of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). In patients on hemodialysis, Renagel decreases the incidence of episodes of high levels of calcium in the body, secondary to high levels of phosphorus.

· Renagel may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

 

Who should not take Renagel?

· Do not take Renagel if you have     ·a low level of phosphorus in your blood, or     ·an obstruction in your bowel.

· Renagel may be dangerous if you have either of the conditions listed above.

· Before taking Renagel, tell your doctor if you have     ·difficulty swallowing,     ·stomach or intestinal problems, or     ·recently had stomach or intestinal surgery.

· You may not be able to take Renagel, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during your treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

· Renagel is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Renagel will harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

· It is also not known whether Renagel will affect a nursing baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding.

 

How should I take Renagel?

· Take Renagel exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Take Renagel with meals and follow the diet prescribed by your doctor.

· Do not open, break, crush, or chew the tablets or capsules before swallowing.

· Store Renagel at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

 

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless your doctor directs otherwise.

 

What happens if I overdose?

· Seek emergency medical attention.

· The symptoms of a Renagel overdose are not known. Since Renagel is not absorbed by the body, the risk of dangerous effects from an overdose is low.

 

What should I avoid while taking Renagel?

· Follow the diet prescribed by your doctor while taking Renagel.

 

What are the possible side effects of Renagel?

· If you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives), stop taking Renagel and seek emergency medical attention.

· Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Renagel and notify your doctor if you experience     ·flatulence;     ·constipation;     ·diarrhea;     ·upset stomach or vomiting; or     ·headache.

· Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

 

What other drugs will affect Renagel?

· Take all other medicines at least one hour before or three hours after a dose of Renagel, under the direction of your doctor. Renagel can bind to other medications, decreasing their effectiveness.

· Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking or using any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

 

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has more information about Renagel written for health professionals that you may read.

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