The active ingredient in Phoslo is calcium acetate. Calcium acetate is a phosphate binder, and its pharmacology is that it works by attaching to dietary phosphorus in the gut, which decreases the absorption of phosphorus. This lowers serum phosphate levels.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Phoslo. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Phoslo:

• The recommended initial dose of Phoslo is 2 tablets with each meal. The dose can increase to 3 to 4 tablets with each meal, depending on the patient. Follow the directions from your healthcare provider.
• Swallow the Phoslo tablets and gelcaps whole. Do not crush, chew, or split.
• It’s important to get your serum phosphate and calcium levels checked to ensure the medication is working correctly and to prevent adverse effects.

Some mild or common side effects of Phoslo seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Mild hypercalcemia

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Phoslo. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Allergic reactions. Signs include skin rash, hives, nausea, vomiting, and swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.
• Severe hypercalcemia (high calcium levels). Signs include tiredness, constipation, muscle weakness, bone pain, soft-tissue calcification, and abnormal heart rhythm.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Phoslo. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Phoslo, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Hypercalcemia

Allergic reaction to any ingredient in Phoslo

Phoslo will start working in a couple days to lower serum phosphate levels. Regular bloodwork will be done to check the levels.

When Phoslo is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• HIV medications like dolutegravir and elvitegravir
• Tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics like ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, doxycycline, omadacycline, and minocycline
• Levothyroxine
• Heart medications like sotalol, digoxin, and thiazide diuretics (water pills)

Phoslo is available in 667 mg tablets and gelcaps.

Store Phoslo at room temperature, out of reach of children and pets.

Fresenius Medical Care manufactured Phoslo, but it has been discontinued.

Yes, there are generic versions of Phoslo. The generic name is calcium acetate.

Do not stop taking Phoslo without consulting your healthcare provider.

It is not known if Phoslo is safe in pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Phoslo (calcium acetate) is present in breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.