Control of Serum Phosphorus: Used in patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) who are on dialysis. Hyperphosphatemia: Management of high phosphorus levels in the blood, which can occur when the kidneys can no longer filter it out effectively.
Control of Serum Phosphorus: Used in patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) who are on dialysis. Hyperphosphatemia: Management of high phosphorus levels in the blood, which can occur when the kidneys can no longer filter it out effectively.
Unlike many vitamins or medications that are absorbed into the bloodstream, Sevelamer stays in the gut: Binding in the Gut: When you eat, phosphorus is present in your food. Sevelamer acts like a "chemical sponge." Prevention of Absorption: As it passes through the digestive tract, it binds to the phosphorus in your food. Excretion: Because the phosphorus is now "stuck" to the Sevelamer, it cannot be absorbed into your blood and is instead passed out of the body through your stool.
Since this medication works entirely within the digestive system, most side effects are gastrointestinal: Common: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, indigestion, and stomach pain. Constipation: This is very common; the drug can slow down the movement of the gut. Flatulence (Gas): Increased bloating and gas. Serious (Rare): Bowel obstruction or perforation (severe blockage), especially in patients with existing digestive issues.
It MUST be taken with meals. Since its job is to bind to the phosphorus in your food, taking it on an empty stomach makes the medication significantly less effective.
High phosphorus can pull calcium out of your bones (making them brittle) and cause dangerous calcium deposits in your heart and blood vessels.
No. The tablets should be swallowed whole. Chewing or crushing them can lead to the medication expanding in your throat or esophagus, causing a choking hazard or irritation.
No. One of its main benefits is that it is 'calcium-free,' which is helpful for patients who already have high calcium levels and cannot use calcium-based binders.
Contact your doctor. Because Sevelamer can worsen constipation, you may need a stool softener or a change in your renal diet.
Yes. It can bind to other drugs just like it binds to phosphorus. Usually, other medications should be taken 1 hour before or 3 hours after Sevelamer.
Yes. Sevelamer works best when combined with a low-phosphorus 'renal diet.' Your dietitian will likely ask you to limit dairy, nuts, and certain sodas.
It may reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and folic acid. Your doctor might monitor these levels and suggest supplements.
They are very similar, but the 'Hydrochloride' version may occasionally cause blood acid levels (metabolic acidosis) to rise in some patients. Your doctor chooses based on your blood chemistry.
You won't 'feel' it working. Effectiveness is measured through regular blood tests to check your serum phosphorus levels.