Sevelamer (se-VEL-a-mer)

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

Brand Name(s):

Renagel, Renvela

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid, Tablet

• Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
• It is best to take this medicine with food or milk.
• Oral liquid: Mix the entire contents of the packet with 2 tablespoons of water for the 0.4-gram dose or the 0.8-gram dose or 4 tablespoons of water for the 2.4-gram dose. Stir the mixture well just before you drink it. You should drink the medicine within 30 minutes of mixing it.
• Your doctor may tell you to take vitamins D, E, and K and folic acid supplements during treatment with this medicine, especially if you are pregnant.
• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

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

• Some medicines can affect how sevelamer works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
  • Cyclosporine, levothyroxine, tacrolimus
• If you are taking any other medicines, you may be asked to take them at least 1 hour before or 3 hours after you take sevelamer. If you need help deciding the best times to take your other medicines, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
• Take ciprofloxacin at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after this medicine.
• Take mycophenolate mofetil at least 2 hours before this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have problems swallowing, stomach or bowel problems (including chronic constipation), or had surgery on your digestive system.
• This medicine may cause serious stomach or bowel problems, including blockage, bleeding, ulcers, colitis (severe diarrhea), necrosis, or perforation (tear or hole).
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

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

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting
• Fever, chills
• Red or black stools
• Stomach pain, cramping, or burning
• Vomiting of material that looks like coffee grounds

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

• Passing gas, stomach upset

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

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088