Key takeaways
Sevelamer hydrochloride (Renagel) and calcium acetate (PhosLo) are both phosphate binders used to lower phosphate levels in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on dialysis. Sevelamer hydrochloride is calcium-free, which means it doesn't raise calcium levels in your blood, unlike calcium acetate, which can cause high calcium levels. This makes sevelamer hydrochloride a better option if you need to avoid extra calcium. Both medications must be taken with meals and come in a pill form, which should be swallowed whole. Sevelamer hydrochloride and calcium acetate can both cause nausea and vomiting. Sevelamer hydrochloride can also cause constipation, which isn't as much as a concern with calcium acetate. Both medications require regular blood tests to monitor their effects and are available as a lower-cost generic.
