Indications 

Kerendia is a prescription medication indicated to manage chronic kidney disease in adults who have type 2 diabetes to decrease the chances of: 

• Progression of kidney disease 
• Kidney failure 
• Death related to cardiovascular disease 
• Heart attack 
• Hospitalization due to heart failure 

Kerendia is categorized as a first-in-class nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonist (ns-MRA). Its mode of action entails obstructing MR-mediated sodium reabsorption and overactivation in epithelial (e.g., kidney) and nonepithelial (e.g., heart and blood vessels) tissues. 

Excessive MR activation is believed to play a role in fibrosis and inflammation. Therefore, Kerendia’s ability to suppress MR activity results in reduced inflammation and a lower likelihood of damage to the kidneys, blood vessels, and heart. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Kerendia, and every time you get a refill, thoroughly review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Seek the guidance of your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions or clarifications. 

The dosage of Kerendia is individualized based on the patient’s medical condition and response to the treatment. To minimize side effects, doctors usually advise starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it. 

Kerendia is taken orally as prescribed by the doctor once daily, regardless of food intake. If unable to swallow the tablet whole, it may be crushed, mixed with water or soft foods like applesauce, and consumed immediately. Do not prepare in advance for future use. 

Strictly follow your doctor’s instructions for taking Kerendia. Do not modify the dosage or frequency of use without medical supervision. 

To achieve optimal results, take Kerendia regularly around the same time daily. Do not discontinue intake without consulting your doctor’s approval. 

Side Effects 

The use of Kerendia may cause certain side effects, which are listed below. If any of these persist or worsen, promptly notify your physician or pharmacist. 

Common Side Effects 

• Dizziness or lightheadedness 

Serious Side Effects 

• Hypotension (low blood pressure) 
• Symptoms of elevated potassium levels: 
  • Nausea 
  • Weakness 
  • Tingling sensations 
  • Chest pain 
  • Irregular heartbeats 
  • Loss of muscle control 
• Signs of reduced sodium levels: 
  • Headaches 
  • Confusion 
  • Impaired cognitive function or memory 
  • Weakness 
  • Unsteadiness 

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the severe symptoms mentioned above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although highly uncommon, a severe allergic reaction to Kerendia may occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following: 

• Rash 
• Facial, tongue, or throat itching or swelling 
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing 

The side effects of Kerendia listed here are not complete. If any unmentioned side effects occur and cause discomfort, notify your doctor immediately. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Kerendia, inform your physician or pharmacist of any known hypersensitivities, particularly to finerenone, other medications, or any inactive ingredients present in Kerendia tablet. 

To determine whether Kerendia is safe for you, disclose your medical history to your doctor, with a particular emphasis on the following: 

• Elevated blood potassium levels (hyperkalemia) 
• Impaired adrenal gland function 
• Liver disease 

Kerendia elimination from the body may be influenced by other medications, potentially impacting its efficacy. Such drugs include: 

• Adagrasib 
• Specific azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole or voriconazole) 
• Ceritinib 
• Clarithromycin 
• Cobicistat 
• Nefazodone 
• Certain HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., nelfinavir or tipranavir) 
• Ritonavir 
• Telithromycin and others 

Medications that raise blood potassium levels (such as drospirenone-containing birth control pills, potassium-sparing diuretics like amiloride/spironolactone/triamterene), and lithium may also interact with Kerendia. 

To avoid such drug interactions, inform your healthcare provider and pharmacist of all your current and planned medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products. 

Seek advice from your physician or pharmacist before taking potassium supplements or utilizing salt substitutes with potassium, as Kerendia treatment may result in higher potassium levels. 

Kerendia usage may induce dizziness, which can be exacerbated by alcohol or marijuana (cannabis). Limit consumption of alcoholic beverages, and if you use marijuana (cannabis), consult with your physician.  

The use of Kerendia during pregnancy should only be considered if it is deemed necessary. Discuss both the potential risks and benefits with your doctor. 

It is unknown if finerenone passes into breast milk. To prevent potential harm to breast-fed infants, refrain from breastfeeding during Kerendia treatment and for one day after completion.