What is/are Renagel?

SEVELAMER is a polymer. It binds phosphates in the stomach and prevents them from being absorbed into the body. This medicine is used in patients with chronic kidney disease on dialysis to prevent dangerous increases in phosphates. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

difficulty swallowing bowel obstruction stomach surgery or disorder an unusual or allergic reaction to sevelamer, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives pregnant or trying to get pregnant breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take with meals. Do not crush, chew or break open your dose. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep this medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following:

phosphorus containing product or supplement

This medicine may also interact with the following:

ciprofloxacin medicines for an irregular heartbeat medicines for seizure control

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your Doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Follow the diet as directed by your doctor.

If you are taking other medications, take them at least 1 hour before or 3 hours after taking this medicine.

What side effects may I notice from this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue confusion, irritability difficulty breathing fever, infection low or high blood pressure unusually weak or tired vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

cough diarrhea or constipation headache pain stomach upset, nausea

This list may not describe all possible side effects.