Finerenone

What is this medication for?

Finerenone is used to lower the risk of worsening heart and kidney disease in patients with chronic kidney disease due to Type 2 diabetes.

How should I take or use this medication?

• This medication can be taken with or without food.

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then, take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients found in the medication.
• You are taking any other medications, supplements, traditional medications or herbal remedies.
• You have liver or kidney problems.

What are some common side effects of this medication? ​

• Feeling faint or dizzy. This might be due to low blood pressure caused by the medication
• Itchiness

As this medication may increase the absorption of potassium, you may develop high potassium levels. It is important that you keep up with any blood tests recommended by your healthcare professional, and be aware of the possible symptoms of high potassium levels:

• Shortness of breath
• Abnormal heartbeat
• Numbness or tingling sensation in the limbs
• Feeling confused and/or weak
• Lightheadedness, feeling like passing out

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately? 

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?

• Avoid taking grapefruit when you are taking this medicine as grapefruit may interact with your medicine and increase the risk of side-effects.

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.

How do I throw away this medication safely? ​

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.