From the Guidelines
Sevelamer can cause a change in taste for some patients, resulting in a chalky or metallic taste in the mouth. This side effect is a known issue with sevelamer, a phosphate binder medication used to manage phosphate levels in patients with kidney disease 1. The taste alteration occurs because small amounts of the medication can dissolve in saliva before being swallowed completely.
Managing the Taste Effect
To minimize this taste effect, it is recommended to take sevelamer with food as prescribed, typically three times daily with meals. Drinking water immediately after taking the tablets or capsules may also help wash away residual medication from the mouth.
Importance of Adherence
If the taste alteration becomes bothersome, it is essential to discuss this with a healthcare provider, as alternative phosphate binders might be available. The taste issue is generally considered a minor side effect compared to sevelamer's important role in managing phosphate levels in patients with kidney disease, but it can affect medication adherence if not addressed 1.
Key Considerations
Some key points to consider when taking sevelamer include:
- Taking the medication with food to minimize taste effects
- Drinking water after taking the medication to wash away residual taste
- Discussing alternative options with a healthcare provider if the taste effect is bothersome
- Prioritizing adherence to the medication regimen to effectively manage phosphate levels and prevent related complications 1.
From the Research
Sevelamer and Taste
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that sevelamer changes the taste 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies primarily focus on the efficacy and safety of sevelamer as a phosphate binder in patients with chronic kidney disease, comparing it to other phosphate binders such as lanthanum carbonate and calcium-based binders.
- Adverse events associated with sevelamer are mentioned, including gastrointestinal events, but altered taste is not specifically reported 4, 6.
- Sevelamer's mechanism of action as a non-absorbed phosphate-binding anion exchange resin does not suggest a direct impact on taste 6.