Sevelamer

Sevelamer is a phosphate binder that helps to reduce the absorption of phosphate from food. It is commonly prescribed to patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) who have high phosphate levels in the blood. Lowering the phosphate levels in the body can help to prevent the progression of bone disorders and other issues from kidney disease.How should I take/use this medication?

• Take this medication as prescribed by your healthcare professional.
• Take the medication with food. Swallow the medication whole. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
• Do not stop your medication without checking with your healthcare professional.
• It is important to follow any diet plans prescribed by your doctor.What should I do if I forget to take/use this medication?

• If you forget to take a dose, do it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any other ingredients in this medication
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies
• You have difficulty swallowing
• You have any bowel obstruction conditions

The side effects for Sevelamer are usually mild and generally well tolerated. They include the following:

• Stomach discomfort
  • Abdominal pain
  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Bloating

These symptoms may happen but they should get better over time. Check with your healthcare professional if your symptoms do not get better or if they become worse.

If you develop signs of gastrointestinal obstruction or bleeding such as:

• Black, tarry or bloody stools
• Throwing up blood or throw up that looks like coffee grounds
• Severe bloating

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

If you are taking Ciprofloxacin (an antibiotic) or Mycophenolate mofetil, you will need to take them 2 hours before taking Sevelamer.

Additionally, please inform your healthcare provider if you are taking any of the following medications, as they may interact with Sevelamer:

• Cyclosporine
• Levothyroxine
• Tacrolimus

Store in a cool and dry place, away from light. Keep this medication away from children.

Discard the medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing it into the rubbish chute or bin.