Key takeaways
Sevelamer hydrochloride (Renagel) and cinacalcet (Sensipar) are both medications used to manage conditions related to chronic kidney disease (CKD), but they work differently and treat different issues. Sevelamer hydrochloride is a phosphate binder that helps lower high phosphorus levels by binding to the phosphate in food. You need to take it with meals, and it is only available in tablet form. On the other hand, cinacalcet lowers high parathyroid hormone levels, which can reduce calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood. Cinacalcet is taken once or twice daily with food and is available as a generic medication. While both medications can cause gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and vomiting, cinacalcet can also lead to very low calcium levels, which can be serious. Sevelamer hydrochloride does not affect calcium levels but must be taken with caution if you have swallowing or digestive tract issues.
