Indications
Kerendia (finerenone) is a medication used to treat chronic kidney disease in adults with type 2 diabetes who have moderate or severe kidney damage. It is a nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA), which works by blocking the effects of a hormone called aldosterone that can contribute to kidney damage.
Finerenone is used to slow down kidney damage, and also to reduce the risk of kidney failure, cardiovascular death, heart attack, and being hospitalized for heart failure. By blocking aldosterone's action, Kerendia can help reduce the risk of kidney function decline, kidney failure, and cardiovascular death.
Uses and Dosage
Kerendia comes in tablet form to be taken orally with or without food and taking it with food may help alleviate stomach discomfort. Follow the dosing instructions provided by your healthcare provider and report any side effects or concerns to them. Do not start any new medications while taking Kerendia (finerenone) without talking to your provider or pharmacist first to make sure the combination of medications is safe to take together.
Typical dosing for Kerendia (finerenone) ranges from 10 mg to 20 mg taken orally once daily, and the exact starting dose depends on individual kidney function. The dosage may be increased after 4 weeks to the target dose of 20 mg once daily, still based on the patient's eGFR and serum potassium levels. Further dose adjustments are made according to blood potassium levels, kidney function, and occurrence of side effects, by your healthcare provider.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Kerendia (Finerenone):
Serious Side Effects of Kerendia (Finerenone):
- Allergic reactions
- High potassium levels
- Chest pain
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Muscle weakness
- Low blood pressure
- Dizziness
- Falls
- Feeling faint or lightheaded
- Unusually weak or tired
Form and Strength
Kerendia (Finerenone) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Kerendia: Film-Coated Tablet
- 10mg
- 20mg
Caution
- The safety of Finerenone in pregnant or breastfeeding women is not known. Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before taking Finerenone.
- Finerenone can raise the amount of potassium in your body, which can put you at risk for serious heart problems if not monitored properly.
- Patients with reduced kidney function or high blood potassium levels before starting treatment may be at higher risk of hyperkalemia.
- Patients with severe liver problems should use Finerenone with caution.
- Therapeutic concentration monitoring is recommended, if available.
- If a patient experiences symptoms of hyperkalemia, such as muscle weakness, chest pain, or irregular heartbeat, they should tell their healthcare provider right away.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How is Finerenone taken?
Finerenone is taken orally as a tablet, usually once a day. The recommended dosage may vary depending on the individual's age, weight, and medical condition.
Are there any precautions or contraindications for taking Finerenone?
Finerenone should not be taken in people with severe renal impairment, liver disease, or hyperkalemia. It may also interact with other medications, so it is important to inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are currently taking.
Can Finerenone be used in people with type 2 diabetes who do not have chronic kidney disease?
Finerenone is currently only approved for use in people with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. It is not intended for use in people without CKD.
Does Finerenone have any drug interactions?
Finerenone may interact with other medications, inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are currently taking. It is particularly important to avoid using Finerenone with other medications that can increase the risk of hyperkalemia, such as potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics.
How long does it take for Finerenone to start working?
The amount of time it takes for Finerenone to start working may vary depending on the individual's medical condition. Some people may see a reduction in proteinuria within a few weeks of starting Finerenone, while others may take longer.
REVIEWS