Indications
- Finerenone is utilized by individuals with type 2 diabetes and kidney disease to reduce the risk of dialysis, heart disease-related death, heart attacks, and hospitalization for heart failure.
- It operates by blocking aldosterone, a chemical in the body, leading to a reduction in the retention of sodium and water.
Dosage and administration
- Take the medication orally, with or without food, as prescribed by your doctor, typically once daily.
- To minimize side effects, your doctor may advise starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it; follow instructions carefully.
- If unable to swallow whole tablets, you may crush and mix them with water or soft foods; consume the mixture immediately and do not prepare it for future use.
- Dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment.
- Use the medication regularly at the same time each day for optimal benefits.
- Do not exceed the prescribed dose or use it more frequently or for a longer duration than instructed.
- Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice unless deemed safe by your doctor or pharmacist, as it may increase the risk of side effects. Consult them for more details.
Side effects
- Possible side effects of the medication include dizziness or lightheadedness; if persistent or worsening, inform your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
- The medication is prescribed because the benefits outweigh the risk of side effects for most people.
- Notify your doctor immediately if you experience serious side effects, such as symptoms of high potassium (muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat) or low sodium (nausea, extreme drowsiness, mental/mood changes, seizures).
- A severe allergic reaction is rare but requires immediate medical attention, with symptoms like rash, swelling of face/tongue/throat, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
- The provided information does not cover all possible side effects; contact your doctor or pharmacist for any unlisted effects.
Precautions
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies before taking finerenone, as inactive ingredients may cause allergic reactions.
- Share your medical history, particularly high potassium levels, decreased adrenal gland function, or liver disease.
- Due to the potential increase in potassium levels, consult your doctor before using potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium.
- Be cautious of dizziness, which may be intensified by alcohol or marijuana use; avoid activities requiring alertness until safe.
- Before surgery, disclose all products you use, including prescriptions, non-prescriptions, and herbal items.
- During pregnancy, use finerenone only if necessary, and discuss risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It’s uncertain if the medication passes into breast milk; breastfeeding is not recommended while using it and for 1 day after the last dose. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.