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What is Renagel
 Renagel
is a phosphate binder.
Renagel
is used to reduce the level of phosphorus in the blood of
patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). In patients
on hemodialysis, Renagel decreases the incidence of episodes
of high levels of calcium in the body, secondary to high levels
of phosphorus.
Renagel
may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this
medication guide.
General medical information about Renagel
Do not open, break, crush, or chew the tablets or
capsules before swallowing.
Take Renagel with meals
and follow the diet prescribed by your doctor.
Take
all other medicines at least one hour before or three hours
after a dose of Renagel, under the direction of your doctor.
Renagel can bind to other medications, decreasing their
effectiveness.
Who should not take Renagel Do not take Renagel if you have
- a low level
of phosphorus in your blood, or
- an obstruction
in your bowel.
Renagel may be dangerous if you have
either of the conditions listed above.
Before taking
Renagel, tell your doctor if you have:
- difficulty
swallowing,
- stomach or intestinal problems, or
- recently had stomach or intestinal surgery.
You may not be able to take Renagel, or you may require
a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during your treatment
if you have any of the conditions listed above.
Renagel
is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is
not known whether Renagel will harm an unborn baby. Do not
take this medication without first talking to your doctor
if you are pregnant.
It is also not known whether
Renagel will affect a nursing baby. Do not take this medication
without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding.
How should take Renagel Take Renagel exactly as directed by your doctor.
If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist,
nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take Renagel
with meals and follow the diet prescribed by your doctor.
Do not open, break, crush, or chew the tablets or
capsules before swallowing.
Store Renagel at room
temperature away from moisture and heat.
If you miss a dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However,
if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose,
skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed.
Do not take a double dose of this medication unless your
doctor directs otherwise.
What happens if you overdose: Seek emergency medical attention.
The symptoms
of a Renagel overdose are not known. Since Renagel is not
absorbed by the body, the risk of dangerous effects from
an overdose is low.
Avoid while taking Renagel Follow the diet prescribed by your doctor while taking
Renagel.
Possible side effects of Renagel If you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty
breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips,
tongue, or face; or hives), stop taking Renagel and seek
emergency medical attention.
Other, less serious
side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take
Renagel and notify your doctor if you experience
-
flatulence;
- constipation;
- diarrhea;
-
upset stomach or vomiting; or
- headache.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur.
Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual
or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect Renagel Take all other medicines at least one hour before
or three hours after a dose of Renagel, under the direction
of your doctor. Renagel can bind to other medications, decreasing
their effectiveness.
Talk
to your doctor and pharmacist before taking or using any other
prescription or over-the-counter medicines. |
