If you have kidney disease, your doctor may have talked to you about the phosphorus levels in your blood. Sometimes it can be a little difficult to control these phosphorus levels. But don't worry, there are medications that can help. Today we are going to talk about one such medication, which is a chewable tablet called Sucroferric Oxyhydroxide.
What kind of medicine is Sucroferric Oxyhydroxide?
Simply put, sucroferric oxyhydroxide is a medication that is given to lower the level of phosphorus in the blood of people with kidney disease. What this medication does is reduce the amount of phosphorus that the body absorbs from the food we eat. We call these types of medications phosphate binders . That is, this medication binds to the phosphorus in the food and passes it out in the stool instead of being absorbed by the body. You may have seen this medication under the brand name `Velphoro`.
Think of it this way: our kidneys are like a filter in our body. Healthy kidneys remove excess phosphorus from our body through urine. But when we have kidney disease, this filter doesn't work properly. That's when this phosphorus starts to accumulate in the body.
Why is it so important to control phosphorus levels?
You may be wondering, "Why are we worrying so much about phosphorus?" Well, when phosphorus levels in the blood increase, a number of problems can arise.
- Weakening of bones: Bones lose calcium, making them weak, easily broken, and painful.
- Itchy skin: Some people itch their skin so much that they can't stand it.
- Damage to blood vessels: If phosphorus levels are high for a long time, it can build up in blood vessels and clog them, increasing the risk of developing heart disease.
That's why doctors are so concerned about phosphorus levels. These Sucroferric Oxyhydroxide tablets help control those phosphorus levels.
What should I tell the doctor before using this medicine?
Before you are given this medicine, your care team will need to know a few things about you. It is important to tell them these things for your safety and to get the most out of the medicine.
- If you have been told that your blood iron level is higher than normal .
- If you have any liver disease .
- If you have any stomach or intestinal problems, or have had surgery related to them.
- If you have previously had an allergic reaction to an iron-containing medicine such as iron sucrose, or if you are allergic to other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
- If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.
By clearly telling your doctor about these things, he or she can decide exactly whether this medication is right for you or not.
How exactly do I use this medicine?
Since this is a chewable tablet, the method of use is a little different.
- This pill should be chewed well, or crushed and swallowed. Never swallow the pill whole. If you try to swallow it whole, it will not provide the desired benefits.
- Follow the instructions on the prescription label given to you by your doctor.
- This medicine should always be taken with food. Because it works by binding the phosphorus in the food you eat. So it works best if you take it with food.
- Take your medicine at the right time, in the same way. Don't take more or less than your doctor tells you to.
- Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting your medical team. If you have any concerns, talk to your doctor about it and follow his or her instructions.
Remember: This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you.
Should this medicine be given to children?
This medicine may require special care if given to children. Therefore, before giving this medicine to your child, talk to your doctor about it and get advice.
What to do if you miss a dose of medicine?
Please, don't panic at such times. If you miss a dose or several doses of the medicine, just resume taking it as usual with the next meal. Do not take a double dose or an extra dose to make up for a missed dose under any circumstances. Doing so may cause other problems.
What if I take too much medicine by mistake? (Overdosage)
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, or if your child has taken it by mistake, call the nearest hospital emergency room or poison control center immediately. Do n't waste time.
Can this medicine interact with other medications/things? (Interactions)
Yes, this medicine called sucroferric oxyhydroxide can interact with some other medicines. If this happens, either the effectiveness of this medicine may decrease, or the effectiveness of the other medicine may decrease, or the side effects may increase.
Some things that may interact with this medication are:
- Alendronate (a medicine that strengthens bones)
- `Aspirin`
- `Calcitriol` (a type of vitamin D)
- Some types of antibiotics, for example, cephalexin, doxycycline, and tetracycline.
- `Doxercalciferol` (a type of vitamin D)
- Paricalcitol (a type of vitamin D)
- Thyroid hormones
This list is not exhaustive. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking (prescription and over-the-counter), herbs, vitamins, and dietary supplements you are taking, as well as if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use other drugs. This will help them give you the best advice.
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
While taking this medicine, it is important to have regular check-ups with your doctor. Your doctor may also order blood work to check things like your phosphorus and iron levels. Don't skip these tests.
What are the possible side effects of this medicine?
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people. Not everyone will, but it's good to be aware of them.
Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately:
These can be quite serious, so if you see anything like this, tell the medical team immediately.
- Allergic reactions: Skin rash, itching, hives (wheals), swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing.
Side effects that are usually not dangerous, but should be reported to your doctor if they persist or become bothersome:
These usually go away in a few days, but if they persist or bother you a lot, tell your doctor.
- Dark stools: This may occur because this medicine contains iron. This is usually not dangerous, but it is best to inform your doctor.
- Diarrhea
- Metallic taste in mouth
- Nausea
- Upset stomach/feeling like your stomach is full
Not all side effects on this list may occur. If you experience anything unusual or uncomfortable, talk to your doctor about it.
How do you store this medicine?
It is also very important to store your medication properly.
- Keep it in a place where children cannot touch it and where they cannot get hold of it.
- Store at room temperature (between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius / 59 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit). Do not expose to extreme heat or cold.
- Do not use medicines that have passed their expiration date. Dispose of them safely.
Finally, remember this (Take-Home Message)
Okay, so now you have a better understanding of the Sucroferric Oxyhydroxide medicine we talked about. Here are some important things to remember:
- This is a medicine that should be chewed, powdered, and taken with food.
- Don't forget to tell your doctor about all other medications you take and any other illnesses you have .
- If you notice any unusual side effects, tell your doctor immediately.
- Do not stop taking the medication or change the dosage without your doctor's advice.
- Go for regular medical checkups.
This medicine is just one aid in the treatment of your kidney disease. It is also very important to follow the doctor's instructions exactly, control your diet, make lifestyle changes if necessary, and take other treatments properly. If you have any questions or are unclear about anything, do not hesitate to ask your doctor or pharmacist. I wish you a speedy recovery!
` Sucroferric Oxyhydroxide, Sucroferric Oxyhydroxide, Kidney disease, Phosphorus, Phosphate binders, Chewable tablets, Velphoro
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