sevelamer

Pronunciation: se VEL a mer

Brand: Renagel, Renvela

Renagel

slide 1 of 5, Renagel,

400 mg, oval, white, imprinted with RENAGEL 400

Image of Renagel
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Renagel

slide 2 of 5, Renagel,

800 mg, oval, white, imprinted with RENAGEL 800

Image of Renagel
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Renvela

slide 3 of 5, Renvela,

carbonate 800 mg, oval, white, imprinted with Renvela 800

Image of Renvela
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Renagel

slide 4 of 5, Renagel,

800 mg, oval, white, imprinted with RENAGEL 800

Image of Renagel
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Sevelamer Carbonate

slide 5 of 5, Sevelamer Carbonate,

carbonate 800 mg, oval, white, imprinted with AN058

Image of Sevelamer Carbonate
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What is the most important information I should know about sevelamer?

You should not take this medicine if you have a bowel obstruction.

What is sevelamer?

Sevelamer is a phosphate binder. Sevelamer helps prevent hypocalcemia (low levels of calcium in the body) caused by elevated phosphorus.

Sevelamer is used to control phosphorus levels in people with chronic kidney disease who are on dialysis.

Sevelamer may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking sevelamer?

You should not take sevelamer if you are allergic to it, or if you have a bowel obstruction.

To make sure sevelamer is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

  • trouble swallowing;
  • severe constipation;
  • a blockage in your intestines;
  • slow digestion;
  • a stomach or intestinal disorder; or
  • if you have recently had stomach or intestinal surgery.

It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy.

Taking sevelamer while you are pregnant can lower your blood levels of certain vitamins or folic acid. Follow your doctor's instructions about taking vitamins or mineral supplements during pregnancy.

Because sevelamer is not absorbed into the bloodstream, it is not expected to be harmful to a nursing baby.

Sevelamer is not approved for use by anyone younger than 6 years old.

How should I take sevelamer?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Take sevelamer with meals.

Sevelamer powder must be dissolved in water before you take it. The 0.8-gram packet should be mixed with at least 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of water. The 2.4-gram packet should be mixed with at least 2 ounces (4 tablespoons) of water.

Stir the powder in water until it is completely dissolved. Stir and drink this mixture right away. To get the entire dose, add a little more water to the same glass, swirl gently and drink right away.

While using sevelamer, you may need frequent blood tests.

Call your doctor if you have have trouble swallowing the tablet, or if it feels like it gets stuck in your esophagus after you swallow it.

Sevelamer may be only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes a special diet. It is very important to follow the diet plan created for you by your doctor or nutrition counselor. You should become very familiar with the list of foods you must eat or avoid to help control your condition.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Be sure to take the missed dose with food. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking sevelamer?

You may be taking other medicines that should not be taken at the same time. Taking sevelamer can make it harder for your body to absorb certain drugs, making them less effective:

  • ciprofloxacin (Cipro) should be taken at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after you take sevelamer;
  • mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept) should be taken at least 2 hours before you take sevelamer.

What are the possible side effects of sevelamer?

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using sevelamer and call your doctor at once if you have:

  • choking, or trouble swallowing;
  • black, bloody, or tarry stools;
  • severe constipation with stomach pain; or
  • constipation that gets worse or does not clear up.

Common side effects may include:

  • nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite;
  • upset stomach, gas, bloating;
  • diarrhea, constipation;
  • tired feeling;
  • itching; or
  • joint pain.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect sevelamer?

Other drugs may interact with sevelamer, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about sevelamer.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.