Renvela

Generic name:sevelamer [ se-VEL-a-mer ]
Brand names: Renagel, Renvela
Drug class:Phosphate binders

Medically reviewed by Sanjai Sinha, MD. Last updated on Mar 7, 2022.

What is Renvela?

Renvela is a phosphate binder. Sevelamer helps prevent hypocalcemia (low levels of calcium in the body) caused by elevated phosphorus.

Renvela is used to control phosphorus levels in people with chronic kidney disease who are on dialysis.

Renvela may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

You should not take Renvela if you have a bowel obstruction.

Before taking Renvela, tell your doctor if you have severe constipation, a blockage in your intestines, a stomach or intestinal disorder, trouble swallowing, or if you have recently had stomach or intestinal surgery.

Avoid taking any other medicines within 1 hour before or 3 hours after you take Renvela. Sevelamer can bind to other medications and make them less effective.

Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor if you are taking ciprofloxacin (Cipro), a heart rhythm medication, or a seizure medication.

Do not take calcium or other mineral supplements without your doctor's advice. Use only the specific type of calcium or mineral supplement your doctor recommends.

Before taking this medicine

You should not take Renvela if you are allergic to sevelamer, or if you have a bowel obstruction.

To make sure Renvela is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• trouble swallowing;

• severe constipation;

• a blockage in your intestines;

• slow digestion;

• a stomach or intestinal disorder; or

• if you have recently had stomach or intestinal surgery.

It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to beco...