Velnate Tablet

Velnate Tablet is used to regulate the increased levels of phosphates in blood in individuals with severe kidney disease. It is also used in patients who undergo dialysis. It contains sevelamer, which belongs to a class of medicines known as phosphate binders.

It works by binding to the phosphates and reduces the levels of phosphate in the blood. Velnate should be taken as directed by the doctor and in doses and duration as prescribed.

Dosage

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, indigestion, diarrhoea, constipation, stomach pain. If you think you have taken too much of Velnate Tablet contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest hospital.

Missed a Dose

In case you’ve missed any dose of Velnate Tablet, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed dose.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Sevelamer works by binding with phosphates in the intestine and inhibits its absorption thus decreasing blood phosphorus levels. This in turn helps in preventing low calcium levels.

Directions for Use

• Velnate Tablet should be taken as directed by your doctor.
• Swallow it whole with a glass of water, do not cut, break or chew the medicine.
• It would be best if you took it at a fixed time for optimal results.
• You should not consume it more than that prescribed by your doctor.

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Velnate Tablet during pregnancy?

• You should consult your doctor before using Velnate Tablet as there is limited information about its safety during pregnancy.
• Your doctor will only prescribe you this medicine if considered essential after assessing the benefits over risks.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Velnate Tablet while breastfeeding?

Consult your doctor before taking Velnate Tablet while breastfeeding as it is unknown if sevelamer passes into breast milk.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Velnate Tablet?

It is unlikely that Velnate Tablet will influence on your driving ability.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Velnate Tablet?

Although there is no known interaction with alcohol and Velnate Tablet, it is essential to consult your physician if you have a habit of consuming alcohol regularly.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

• You have undergone a major stomach or bowel surgery
• You have problems with the bowel movement (digestion problem)
• You have difficulty in swallowing foods or liquids
• You have severe stomach pain or intestine disorders
• You notice blood in your stools (gastrointestinal bleeding)
• You are suffering from a condition when the parathyroid gland becomes overactive and leads to a raise in calcium level (hyperparathyroidism) and when thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism)
• During the treatment you may develop low levels of vitamins A, D, E, K and folic acid in your blood and therefore your doctor may monitor these levels.

Contraindications

• If you are allergic to sevelamer or any other ingredients of Velnate Tablet
• If you have difficulty in passing stools
• If you have low levels of phosphorous

Side effects

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

• Some medicines can affect the way Velnate Tablet works, or this medicine itself can reduce the effectiveness of other medicines taken at the same time.
• Tell your doctor about all the medicines, supplements, or herbals you are currently taking or might take to avoid any possible interaction.
• Velnate Tablet can reduce the effect of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin when used together.
• Medicines used for heart rhythm problems or for epilepsy like amiodarone, quinidine, phenytoin should be given after a gap of at least 1 hour before and 3 hours after the administration of Velnate Tablet
• Medicine used to treat acidity like omeprazole, pantoprazole or lansoprazole may interfere with the efficacy of this Tablet on concomitant use
• This medicine can reduce the effect of medicines acting on immune system like ciclosporin, mycophenolate mofetil and tacrolimus when used simultaneously.
• Close monitoring of the hormone levels is recommended if this medicine is taken along with levothyroxine to treat low thyroid hormone levels.

Storage and disposal

• Store Velnate Tablets at room temperature protected from moisture and heat.
• Keep them out of reach and sight of children and pets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long to take Velnate Tablet?

The dose and duration of Velnate Tablet will depend on the response to treatment. Follow your doctor's instructions and do not stop taking this medicine on your own.

Does Velnate Tablet contain a steroid?

No, Velnate Tablet does not contain a steroid. It contains sevelamer, which belongs to a class of medicines known as phosphate binders.