Phosphate binder
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Sevelamer hydrochloride is a medicine that works like a sponge in your stomach — it binds to phosphate from the food you eat and stops your body from absorbing too much of it into your blood.
Binds to phosphate ions in the gastrointestinal tract through ionic interactions, forming insoluble complexes that are excreted in faeces and prevent phosphate absorption and reabsorption in dialysis patients.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Take the tablets with meals — you must swallow them whole with water, do not crush, chew, or break them. The usual starting dose is 1 to 2 tablets (800mg each) three times a day with each main meal. Your doctor will adjust your dose based on your blood phosphate level, so follow their instructions carefully. In Nigeria, you may find it sold as Foseal-800 Tablets.
If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose with your next meal as usual. Do not double up to make up for the missed dose.
This medicine is used alongside dialysis treatment — it is not a cure for kidney disease, so do not stop dialysis because you are taking it. Always buy from a licensed pharmacy and ensure you are getting genuine Foseal-800 or other verified brands. Do not share this medicine with others, even if they also have kidney problems — the dose must be set by a doctor based on blood tests.
Sevelamer can reduce the absorption of other medicines you take — especially thyroid medicines (like levothyroxine), blood pressure drugs, and antibiotics like ciprofloxacin. Take your other medications at least 1 hour before or 3 hours after sevelamer to avoid this problem. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the medicines you are taking.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Sevelamer with your other drugs?
Sevelamer is not well studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women — do not use it during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically tells you it is necessary.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — this is especially important in hot Nigerian weather. Keep the container tightly closed to protect from humidity, and always store out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.