(RxWiki News) The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a long-awaited drug for those with chronic kidney disease and diabetes.
This newly approved drug is found under the brand name Kerendia and active ingredient finerenone. It is approved for adults with chronic kidney disease associated with type 2 diabetes. The FDA said this medication has been shown to lower the risk of the following:
- Worsening kidney function
- Kidney failure
- Death linked to heart disease
- Heart attack
- Hospitalization for heart failure
Diabetes is linked to chronic kidney disease and kidney failure. Those with diabetes are also at risk for heart disease.
The FDA approved Kerendia based on a clinical trial that included over 5,600 people. The drug is available in tablet form to be taken once a day with or without food.
Possible side effects of Kerendia may include changes in electrolytes, including increases in potassium and decreases in sodium levels. This drug can also lower blood pressure.
This medication is not for everyone. If you are taking medications called CYP3A4 inhibitors, finerenone is not recommended. Some CYP3A4 inhibitors include but are not limited to the antibiotic clarithromycin, some medications used to treat HIV (ritonavir) and some antifungals (ketoconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole and voriconazole).
If you are not sure whether you are taking any of the listed medications, talk to your health care provider.
The FDA approved this medication for Bayer Healthcare.
