Renagel (Sevelamer)

What is Renagel?

Renagel is a phosphate binder.

What is Renagel used for?

Renagel is used for the treatment of hypocalcemia, in which the level of calcium in the body is decreased because of enhanced phosphorus level. Renagel is also used in the treatment of patients with kidney disease (who are on dialysis).

How does Renagel work?

Renagel starts its action by inhibiting intestinal phosphate absorption with phosphate binders and then phosphate is removed by the process of dialysis.

How to use Renagel

It is advisable to take Renagel in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer period than recommended. Take the medicine with food and do not crush or chew the tablet before you swallow it.

Your doctor may advise you to go for blood test regularly, just to make sure that the medicine is not causing any side effects. Do not miss your appointment with the doctor.

Your doctor will make a proper diet plan along with the course of Renagel, which has to be followed regularly for good results of the medicine.

Renagel warnings and precautions

Sevelemar, which is a key ingredient of Renagel, is expected to bind with other medicines and reduce their effectiveness. So, avoid taking any other medication one hour before and three hours after taking Renagel.

Avoid taking calcium or any other mineral supplement unless your doctor recommends you. You must take only specific type of calcium or mineral supplements recommended by your doctor. Store the medicine at appropriate room temperature and try to keep it away from excess moisture and heat. Never share your medicines with any other person and keep it away from children.

If you are sensitive to Sevelemor, then your doctor will not advise you to take Renagel. Avoid taking the drug, if you are suffering from hypophosphatemia or if you have blockage in your intestine.

If you have undergone stomach or intestinal surgery recently, or if you are suffering from constipation and swallowing problem, then Renagel may not be the right medicine for you.

What do I do if I have missed a Renagel dose?

If you have missed your Renagel dose, you should take it as soon as possible after you remember and never take two doses at one time, as it may lead to side effects. If it is almost time to take the next dose, then skip the missed one and follow your schedule again.

What do I do if I have taken a Renagel overdose?

If you have taken a Renagel overdose you should call emergency medical services as soon as possible. Since the medicine is not absorbed by the body, it will not show life-threatening symptoms.

Renagel interactions

Tell your doctor if you are using medicines like ciprofloxacin, levothyroxine, seizure medications and medicines for heart rhythm disorder. Before taking Renagel, ask your doctor if you are already taking any prescribed or non-prescribed medicine.

Even if you are taking vitamins, minerals, herbal products and drugs prescribed by other doctor, you must discuss about them with your health adviser.

Renagel side effects

If you experience signs of allergic reactions like hives, difficulty in breathing; swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat; you must seek emergency medical aid.

Immediately call your medical health provider, if you see serious side effects of Renagel like severe stomach pain, constipation, chills, fever, headache or symptoms of flu.

Some of the less serious side effects of Renagel are mild stomach pain, gas, upset stomach, constipation, vomiting and queasiness.