Renvela

Renvela Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Renvela is a brand name. Its generic name is Sevelamer.

Renvela

Renvela is a polymeric material used as medication to treat hyperphosphatemia (high phosphorus levels in the blood) in end-stage renal failure. It is an oral phosphorous binder with a low potential for interactions and few adverse reactions, making it suitable for long-term therapy. The medication works by binding phosphorous to it in the gut, preventing it from being reabsorbed and eventually excreted.

Uses for Renvela

Renvela is used primarily for hyperphosphatemia. It is given orally and binds phosphorous directly in the gut, which helps to reduce blood levels of the nutrient. This medication is primarily used for patients who have kidney failure or are on dialysis. It may also be prescribed for those with chronic kidney disease who are not on dialysis.

Mechanism of Action

Renvela works by binding phosphorous in the gut. This process prevents the phosphorous from being reabsorbed and eventually excreted. It binds to the phosphorous in the gastrointestinal tract and does not pass into the bloodstream, thus reducing the levels of phosphorous in the blood.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

The effects of Renvela can be seen within 1-2 weeks, though it can take up to 6 weeks to reach an optimum level. The benefits of Renvela are cumulative, so periodic monitoring is necessary.

Absorption, Route of Elimination, Dosage, Administration

Renvela is not absorbed by the body and is excreted unchanged. It is usually administered orally in a tablet or suspension form. The standard dosage is 800 mg taken orally twice a day, but this can be adjusted depending on serum phosphorus levels or other factors such as weight or age.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Renvela include nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation. Rare, more serious side effects include an allergic reaction and, very rarely, kidney issues. If any of these symptoms occur, seek immediate medical attention.

Toxicity

Renvela is generally well tolerated, and serious toxicity is rare. However, it should not be taken by patients with allergies to sevelamer or any components of the formulation. Also, it is important to monitor serum phosphorus levels during therapy to avoid potential toxicity.

Precautions

It is important to let your doctor know if you have any allergies or health concerns before starting Renvela treatment. Furthermore, patients using this drug should be monitored regularly for signs of kidney toxicity or adverse reactions.

Interactions

Renvela is unlikely to interact with other medications and does not bind other vitamins or minerals. However, it may interact with calcium-containing antacids and should not be taken at the same time as other phosphorous binders. It is important to inform your healthcare provider of all the medications you are taking before beginning Renvela therapy.

Disease Interactions

Renvela may interfere with phosphorus balance in patients with liver disease or chronic kidney failure, and should be used cautiously in these patients. Patients with severe kidney failure may require adjusted dose and careful monitoring. Patients with hypercalcemia should be closely monitored while taking Renvela.

Drug Interactions

Renvela has no known drug interactions, though it is important to inform your prescribing doctor or pharmacist of all the medications you take before beginning this treatment. Additionally, it is important not to take it with other phosphorous binders as this may induce adverse reactions or interfere with the drug’s ability to bind phosphorous.

Food Interactions

Renvela has no known interaction with food. It is advisable to take this medication without food, as it may not be as effective when taken with food. Additionally, it is important to talk to your doctor about when it is best to take Renvela, as certain foods may cause a decrease in the absorption of the medication.

Pregnancy Use

Renvela is not recommended for use in pregnant women, as its safety in this population has not been established. If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor about the risks of taking this drug. Additionally, if you become pregnant while taking Renvela, it is essential to tell your doctor right away.

Lactation Use

Renvela is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women, as its safety in this population has not been established. If you are breastfeeding, talk to your doctor about the risks of taking this drug. Additionally, if you become pregnant while taking Renvela, it is essential to tell your doctor right away.

Acute Overdose

If an overdose is suspected, contact a healthcare provider immediately. Symptoms of an acute overdose may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea. Treatment of an overdose includes supportive care and gastric lavage.

Contraindication

Renvela is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to sevelamer or any components of the formulation. Additionally, it is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Use Direction

Renvela should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. It is usually taken twice daily, with or without food. The dosage may be altered depending on your age, weight, and serum phosphorus levels. It is important to take Renvela exactly as prescribed and to follow all instructions given by your doctor.

Storage Condition

Store Renvela tablets at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. Keep this and all medication away from children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.

Volume of Distribution, Half Life, Clearance

The volume of distribution of Renvela is approximately 0.13 L/kg. Its elimination half-life is approximately 3 hours. Its clearance rate is unknown.

Here you find in details version of Renvela

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Renvela

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What is Renvela?

Renvela is a medication used to lower the level of phosphate in people with chronic kidney disease who are on dialysis.

What does Renvela do?

Renvela binds phosphate in the stomach and prevents it from being absorbed into the body, thus reducing serum phosphate levels.

How is Renvela taken?

Renvela is available as an oral tablet or powder and is taken before meals with a full glass of water.

What are the side effects of Renvela?

common side effects of Renvela include nausea, constipation, vomiting, and diarrhea. More serious side effects include shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, swelling of the face, throat, or tongue, and hives.

How long does Renvela take to work?

Renvela begins to work immediately so patients may begin to see changes in their blood phosphorus levels within about two weeks.

How effective is Renvela?

Renvela has been found to be effective in reducing serum phosphorus levels in patients with chronic kidney disease.

Is there anyone who should not take Renvela?

Renvela is not recommended for patients who have any type of allergies to the active ingredient. It is also not recommended for people with a history of kidney stones or anemia.

Does Renvela interact with any other medications?

Yes. Renvela can interact with certain antibiotics, antacids, and calcium supplements. It is important to discuss all medications with your doctor before taking Renvela.

What if I miss a dose of Renvela?

If you miss a dose of Renvela, take it as soon as you remember and then resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

Are there any dietary restrictions while taking Renvela?

Yes. While taking Renvela, it is important to follow a low-phosphorus diet and limit your intake of phosphorous-containing dairy products, proteins, and grains.

Are there any alternatives to Renvela?

Yes. Other phosphate binders such as calcium acetate and lanthanum carbonate can be used to reduce blood phosphorus levels in chronic kidney disease patients.

What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Renvela?

If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

What should I do if I experience nausea or vomiting with Renvela?

If you experience nausea or vomiting with Renvela, it is important to remain hydrated. It may also help to take your Renvela dose with food.

What should I do if I experience constipation while taking Renvela?

If you experience constipation while taking Renvela it is important to drink plenty of fluids and eat a high-fiber diet. It may also help to increase your exercise level.

What should I do if I forget to take my dose of Renvela?

If you forget to take your dose of Renvela, take it as soon as you remember and then resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

Should I take Renvela with or without food?

Renvela is typically taken with a full glass of water before meals. If nausea or vomiting occurs, it may help to take the medication with food.

Is Renvela safe to use during pregnancy?

Renvela is not recommended during pregnancy. It is important to discuss your treatment options with your doctor before taking Renvela.

Can I eat dairy products while taking Renvela?

It is important to limit your intake of dairy products while taking Renvela as they can contain high amounts of phosphorous. It is important to maintain a low-phosphorus diet while taking this medication.

What should I do if I experience side effects while taking Renvela?

If you experience any side effects while taking Renvela, it is important to contact your doctor or healthcare provider. They may be able to adjust your dosage or suggest alternative treatments.

Does Renvela have any drug interactions?

Yes. Renvela can interact with certain antibiotics, antacids, and calcium supplements. It is important to discuss all medications with your doctor before taking Renvela.

How often do I need to take Renvela?

It is usually recommended to take Renvela three times a day, spaced evenly throughout the day before meals with 8 ounces of liquid.

What is the dosage for Renvela?

The usual starting dose of Renvela is 800-1600 mg taken three times a day. Your exact dosage will depend on various factors such as your age, weight, and medical condition.

How long do I need to take Renvela?

The length of treatment depends on the individual, though it can be taken for long-term treatment. It is important to discuss a timeline for treatment with your doctor.

What should I tell my doctor before taking Renvela?

It is important to inform your doctor of any allergies, medications that you are taking, or any other medical conditions before taking Renvela.

Can I take calcium supplements while taking Renvela?

No. It is important to avoid taking calcium supplements while taking Renvela as they can interact with the medication.

Are there any natural alternatives to Renvela?

Yes, there are several natural alternatives to Renvela such as seaweed extracts, alginates, and magnesium citrate. It is important to discuss these alternatives with your doctor before taking.

Can Renvela be taken with other medications?

Yes, Renvela can be taken with other medications, however it is important to discuss all medications with your doctor to avoid any potential interactions.

Can Renvela be used in people with impaired renal function?

Yes, Renvela can be used in people with impaired renal function, however it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of taking the medication with your doctor.

What is the difference between Renvela and Lanthanum?

Renvela and Lanthanum are both phosphate binders used to reduce blood phosphate levels in people with chronic kidney disease. Renvela binds phosphate in the stomach and lanthanum binds phosphate in the small intestine.

What is the difference between dialysis and Renvela?

Dialysis is a technique used to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood in people with kidney failure. Renvela is a medication used to lower the level of phosphate in people with chronic kidney disease who are on dialysis.

Are there any foods that should be avoided while taking Renvela?

Yes. It is important to avoid foods that are high in phosphorous such as dairy products, proteins, and grains while taking Renvela.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Renvela?

It is not advised to drink alcohol while taking Renvela as it can increase the risk of certain side effects. It is important to discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor.

Can Renvela be taken with antacids?

Yes, Renvela can be taken with antacids, however it is important to discuss all medications with your doctor to reduce the risk of any interactions.

Can Renvela be taken with antibiotics?

Yes, Renvela can be taken with antibiotics, however it is important to discuss all medications with your doctor to reduce the risk of any interactions.

Does Renvela have any harmful side effects?

Renvela can cause serious side effects which include shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, swelling of the face, throat, or tongue, and hives. It is important to contact your physician immediately if any of these side effects occur.

How often should my phosphate levels be monitored while taking Renvela?

It is important to have your phosphate levels monitored regularly while taking Renvela. Your physician will determine the frequency of monitoring based on your individual needs.

What is the cost of Renvela?

The cost of Renvela can vary depending on your insurance coverage. It is important to check with your provider for current pricing information.

Can Renvela be taken long-term?

Yes, Renvela can be taken long-term, however it is important to discuss all risks and benefits with your doctor.

Can Renvela be taken with other medications for kidney disease?

Yes, Renvela can be taken with other medications for kidney disease, however it is important to discuss all medications with your doctor to reduce the risk of any interactions.

Is Renvela available in generic form?

Yes, Renvela is available in generic form. However, it is important to check with your pharmacist to ensure that you are receiving the generic form of the medication.