Drug Notes

Sevelamer (By mouth)

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.
• To use the powder: Mix the entire contents of the packet with 2 tablespoons of water for 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.
• 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:
  • Ciprofloxacin, cyclosporine, levothyroxine, mycophenolate mofetil, tacrolimus
• If you take other medicines, your doctor will tell you when to take them while you are using this medicine. You may need to take some medicines several hours before or after you take sevelamer.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have problems swallowing, stomach or bowel problems (such as chronic constipation), or had surgery on your digestive system.
• 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
• Fever, chills
• Red or black stools
• Severe constipation
• Severe 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:

• Diarrhea, constipation, nausea or vomiting, gas, stomach pain or 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

Last Updated: 1/27/2017