Fosrenol (Lanthanum Carbonate Chewable Tablets) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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February 10, 2012

Fosrenol

Kidney Failure »

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Fosrenol

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FOSRENOL
(lanthanum carbonate)

DRUG DESCRIPTION

FOSRENOL contains lanthanum carbonate (2:3) hydrate with molecular formula La₂(CO₃)₃ xH₂O (on average x=4-5 moles of water) and molecular weight 457.8 (anhydrous mass). Lanthanum (La) is a naturally occurring rare earth element. Lanthanum carbonate is practically insoluble in water.

Each FOSRENOL, white to off-white, chewable tablet contains lanthanum carbonate hydrate equivalent to 500, 750, or 1000 mg of elemental lanthanum and the following inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide NF, dextrates (hydrated) NF, magnesium stearate NF.

FOSRENOL does not contain calcium or aluminum.

What are the possible side effects of lanthanum carbonate (Fosrenol)?

Stop using lanthanum carbonate and get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take lanthanum carbonate and tell your doctor if you have:

nausea or vomiting;
diarrhea or constipation;
stomach pain; or
dialysis graft blockage.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to...

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What are the precautions when taking lanthanum carbonate chewable tablets (Fosrenol)?

Before taking lanthanum, 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: stomach/intestinal problems (e.g., ulcers, bowel blockage), problems chewing tablets.

This drug may make you dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.

Before having an X-ray of your stomach, be sure to tell X-ray lab personnel that you are taking this medication.

Children may be more...

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Last reviewed on RxList: 9/16/2011
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.