Prescription Required
Description
What is Renvela (Sevelamer Carbonate) prescribed for?
This medication is used to lower high blood phosphorus levels in patients who on dialysis due to severe kidney disease. Dialysis removes some phosphate form your blood, but it becomes difficult to remove enough to keep your phosphate levels balanced.
Decreasing blood phosphate levels can keep your bones strong and prevent an unsafe build up of minerals in your body, and it may possibly decrease the risk of heart disease and stroke that may result from high phosphate levels. This medication works by holding onto phosphate form the diet so it than may pass out of your body.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this medication, consult with your doctor or pharmacist on the matter. Take this medication directly has prescribed, and make sure to read the instructions on the prescription label. And if you have any concerns, speak with your medical professional.
Directions
This medication is to be taken by mouth, usually 3 times a day, with meals. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush, chew, or split the tablet.
Remember the dosage is based on your medical condition and your response to the treatment, as well as any other medications you may take to lower your phosphate levels.
Take this medication on a regular basis to gain the most benefit. Just remember to take it 3 times a day with each meal, or on a schedule give to you by your doctor.
Cautions
Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic Sevelamer Carbonate; or to any other medications or allergies in general. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
Before taking this medication, it is for the best to inform your doctor of your Medical history, especially if you have ever had the following; low blood phosphorus levels, stomach/intestinal problems (such as blockage, constipation), stomach/intestinal surgeries, swallowing problems (dysphagia).
Side Effects
While minor, some of these side effects may occur. They are as follows; Headache, diarrhea, stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, cough, gas, or constipation may occur. However if any of these persist or worsen, it’s best to speak with your doctor right away.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: problems with your dialysis access site, severe constipation/inability to have a bowel movement, stomach/abdominal pain or swelling.
Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: trouble breathing, chest pain, pain/redness/swelling in the lower legs.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
FAQs
What is Renvela used for?
Renvela is used in addition to dialysis to help lower blood phosphorus levels in those with severe kidney disease. Decreasing phosphorus in the blood stream when levels are too high can help reduce the risk of weakened bones and may also help prevent heart disease and stroke.
How does Renvela work?
Phosphorus enters into our bodies through the food we eat which then gets absorbed into our blood stream. Renvela contains Sevelamer Carbonate, a phosphorus binder, which has the ability to bind to phosphorus. Once it binds to the phosphorus, it cannot be absorbed into the blood stream, resulting in a lower level of blood phosphorus.
How to take Renvela?
Renvela comes in the form of a tablet for oral administration. It is important to take this medication by mouth, swallowing the tablet whole without crushing, chewing, or splitting the tablet in half. It is generally taken 3 times per day with food; however, your doctor will prescribe this medication to you with a specific dosing regimen, including what strength to take, how often to take it, and if you can take it with food. Follow only the directions given to you by your doctor.
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