Sevelamer is a phosphate binder medication used primarily to manage hyperphosphatemia (high blood phosphate levels) in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially those on dialysis.
Key Points:
- Generic Name: Sevelamer
- Class: Phosphate binder (non-calcium, non-metal based)
- Mechanism of Action: Sevelamer binds phosphate in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream. This helps lower serum phosphate levels.
Uses:
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients, especially those on hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis, often develop hyperphosphatemia due to reduced phosphate excretion.
- Sevelamer helps prevent complications like vascular calcification and bone disorders associated with high phosphate.
Forms: Tablets or oral powder
Side Effects: Nausea, Vomiting, Constipation, Abdominal pain, Rare: intestinal obstruction or perforation