Kerendia

Uses of Kerendia

Kerendia (finerenone) is a  FDA approved tablet taken once a day by adults who have chronic kidney disease from type 2 diabetes.  Kerendia is used to slow down kidney damage, and also to reduce the risk of kidney failure, cardiovascular death, heart attack and being hospitalized for heart failure. Kerendia is from the class of meds called mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is when your kidneys are not working properly and they work less effectively over time. Having type 2 diabetes increases your chances of having chronic kidney disease. Often type 2 diabetics do not have any symptoms in the early stages of CKD and they might not realize they have it until it is advanced and they may need to have dialysis or kidney transplant to survive. If you have diabetes it is important to get your kidneys checked regularly by having a blood and urine test, if you have signs of reduced kidney function or the start of CKD early treatment can help prevent you having extra health problems.

Precautions and Warnings

Before taking finerenone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: high potassium blood levels (hyperkalemia), decreased adrenal gland function, liver disease.

This medication may increase your potassium levels. Before using potassium supplements or salt substitutes that contain potassium, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while using this medication and for 1 day after the last dose. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Dosage

Usual Adult Dose for Chronic Kidney Disease:

Initial dose:

For estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at least 60 mL/min/1.73 m2: 20 mg orally once a day

For eGFR 25 to less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m2: 10 mg orally once a day

Target dose:

20 mg orally once a day

Side Effects

Common side effects:

• high potassium;
• low sodium; or
• low blood pressure.