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

This is Renvela, 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 harm your bones, heart, blood vessels and lungs.

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

Renvela must be taken with meals. You should take it exactly how your doctor tells you to. 
Renvela is available as tablets and as powder.

Renvela powder can be prepared two ways: 
•	You can sprinkle the dose onto a small amount of applesauce or similar food. 
•	Or, you can mix the dose in a cup with at least 4 tablespoons of water. You must stir the powder very well until it is mixed well in the water. It will not dissolve. 

Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, feeling gassy and having stomach upset or pain. These are normal if they are mild, and should go away. Vomiting is also common, and you should tell your doctor if it happens to you. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking Renvela, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. 

As with any medicine, rare but serious side effects can occur. With Renvela, this includes trouble or discomfort swallowing, and bowel problems - like severe constipation, a tear, or a blockage.  

Some drug interactions can occur. You should ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking antacids, antibiotics or thyroid medicine.

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