Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is Renagel, and it's a 'phosphate binder'. It lowers the amount of phosphate in the blood of people who have kidney disease. This is important, because too much phosphate can be harmful to your bones, heart, blood vessels and lungs. 

Phosphate enters your body from foods and drinks. Renagel binds the phosphate, and keeps it in the digestive tract. Then, it leaves your body when you have a bowel movement.

Renagel must be taken with meals. You should take it exactly how your doctor tells you to. 

Common side effects include an upset stomach, diarrhea, nausea and itching. These are normal if they are mild, and should go away. Vomiting could occur, and you should tell your doctor if it happens to you. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking Renagel, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. 

Renagel can cause constipation. If constipation happens, it must be treated so it does not cause severe problems. Be sure to ask your doctor how to prevent constipation, and when to report symptoms. 

As with any medicine, more serious side effects could occur. With Renagel, this includes trouble swallowing and an infection in your inner abdomen. You should tell your doctor right away if you have trouble swallowing, or if you have stomach pain that doesn't go away.

Some drug interactions can occur. You should ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking certain antibiotics, transplant medications and antacids.

For best results with Renagel, remember to take it with food. Also, be sure to follow the 'low-phosphate diet' that your doctor recommends.