Drug Name

Renagel

Drug Uses

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

Renagel is used to reduce blood levels of phosphorus in people with chronic kidney disease who are on dialysis.

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

Drug Class and Mechanism

Renagel is a phosphate binder. It binds with phosphate in the digestive tract, which decreases the amount of phosphate absorbed into the body.

Warnings/Precautions

Do NOT use Renagel if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Renagel
• you have low blood phosphate levels or a blockage of your bowels

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Before using Renagel:

Some medical conditions may interact with Renagel . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

• if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
• if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
• if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
• if you have difficulty swallowing or certain stomach or bowel problems (eg, severe constipation), or if you have had major stomach or bowel surgery
• if you take medicines for irregular heartbeat, seizures, or thyroid problems

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Renagel . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

• Ciprofloxacin because its effectiveness may be decreased by Renagel

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Renagel may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.

Possible Side Effects

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

Constipation; diarrhea; gas; indigestion; nausea; stomach pain; vomiting.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); severe or persistent constipation or stomach pain.

More Information

If you have any questions about Renagel , please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
Renagel is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.