Sucroferric oxyhydroxide is used to help control hyperphosphataemia (abnormally high level of phosphate in the blood) in individuals with long-term kidney disease undergoing dialysis (a procedure to eliminate toxic substances from the blood).
Take Sucroferric oxyhydroxide exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Take it together with food or immediately after a meal. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Completely chew the tablet before swallowing. If necessary, you may crush the tablet to help you with chewing. Do not swallow it whole.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the phosphate levels in your blood.
Sucroferric oxyhydroxide must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- haemochromatosis (abnormal iron build-up in your organs)
- other iron accumulation disorders
as Sucroferric oxyhydroxide may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- history of peritonitis (inflammation of the lining in the abdomen) within the last 3 months
- stomach problems
- history of major surgery in the stomach or intestines
- liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly. You may need to have routine blood tests (e.g. calcium, phosphorus, and iron levels) while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
Sucroferric oxyhydroxide may cause any of the following side effects: headache, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, constipation, indigestion, stomach pain or discomfort, stomach wind, and changes in taste.
Your stool may look darker or black in colour. This is normal while you are being treated with this medicine. It may also cause your teeth to change in colour. This is harmless, do not be alarmed.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- rashes, breathlessness, swollen face, eyes, tongue or throat
- black stools accompanied by increasing tiredness and breathlessness
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- certain antibiotics e.g. doxycycline, cefalexin
- levothyroxine (medicine for thyroid disorder)
- aspirin (medicine for pain and inflammation)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Sucroferric oxyhydroxide.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Protect from moisture.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.