Renvela

Generic name: Sevelamer carbonate

What is Renvela?

Renvela is a medicine used to control serum phosphorus levels in your body. It is used for patients with chronic kidney disease on dialysis.

What is the most important information I should know about Renvela?

You should not take Renvela if you have low phosphorus levels in your body or if you have bowel obstruction. Talk to your doctor if you have any swallowing disorders, severe constipation, or have had any major GI tract surgery. Use with caution if you have any of those disorders.

Who should not take Renvela?

Renvela with caution if you are pregnant or breastfeeding because the effects of this medicine on pregnant women are unknown. Do not take Renvela if you have low phosphorus levels also or have bowel obstruction.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Renvela?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Renvela. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have any problems swallowing, constipation, or have had major GI tract surgery.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual starting dose is one or two 800mg tablets three times daily.

How should I take Renvela?

Take Renvela three times daily with meals. The doctor will adjust by one tablet per meal at two-week intervals as needed to reach serum phosphorus goals.

What should I avoid while taking Renvela?

Certain medications may interact with Renvela such as ciprofloxacin, digoxin, warfarin, enalapril, metoprolol, or iron. Speak to your doctor about how to space apart medications that are going to interact with your medication.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Renvela?

If Renvela is taken with certain other drugs, the effect of either medication could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Renvela with the following: ciprofloxacin, digoxin, warfarin, enalapril, metoprolol, or iron.

What are the possible side effects of Renvela?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, indigestion, abdominal pain, constipation

Can I receive Renvela if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

You should use Renvela with caution if you are pregnant or breastfeeding because the effects of this medicine on pregnant women are unknown.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Renvela?

If you miss a dose of Renvela, take the prescribed dose at the next scheduled time; do not double the next dose.

How should I store Renvela?

Store Renvela at room temperature. Protect the medicine from moisture by keeping the bottle closed tightly.