Dosage Details for Kerendia
If you have chronic kidney disease (CKD) that’s related to type 2 diabetes, your doctor might suggest Kerendia as a treatment option. It’s a prescription drug used to reduce the risk of the following in adults who already have CKD and type 2 diabetes:
- death related to cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) disease, such as stroke
- continued worsening of kidney function, measured by estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR)
- A heart attack does not cause death.
- End-stage disease.
- hospital admission for heart failure in those with CKD from type 2 diabetes
Finerenone is the active ingredient in Kerendia. An active ingredient is what makes a drug work. Kerendia is a drug that is in a group of drugs called MRAs. MRAs block harmful effects of hormones.
This article describes the dosages of Kerendia, as well as its strengths and how to take it. To learn more about Kerendia, see this in-depth article.
Note: This chart highlights the basics of Kerendia’s dosage. Be sure to read on for more detail.
Kerendia’s form | Kerendia’s strengths | Kerendia’s starting dose | Kerendia’s target dose |
tablet | • 10 milligrams is a lot. • 20 tablets. |
• 10 mg once daily, or • 20 tablets. once daily |
20 tablets. once daily |
Please keep in mind that this article covers Kerendia’s standard dosage schedule, which is provided by the drug’s manufacturer. But always follow the dosing instructions your doctor prescribes.
“This section contains information about Kerendia’s dosage.”
What is Kerendia’s form?
Kerendia is a tablet that you swallow.
What strengths does Kerendia come in?
Kerendia has two strengths.
- 10 milligrams is a lot.
- 20 tablets.
What are the usual dosages of Kerendia?
Your doctor will probably start you on a Kerendia dosage based on your current health. They will adjust the amount over time to reach your target.
Your dosage will depend on your kidney function, which is measured by your estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Your doctor will also measure the level of potassium in your blood before you start taking Kerendia. If your potassium levels are too high, your doctor may recommend a different treatment for you.
The information below describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. But be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs.
Dosage for certain health problems related to chronic kidney disease (CKD) from type 2 diabetes
Kerendia is prescribed for people with CKD from type 2 diabetes to help lower the risk of the following:
- death related to cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) disease, such as stroke
- The worsening of the function of the kidneys is measured by GFR.
- A heart attack does not cause death.
- End-stage disease.
- hospital admission for heart failure in those with CKD from type 2 diabetes
Your dosage of Kerendia is based on your estimated GFR and usually ranges from 10 mg to 20 tablets. taken at a frequency of once per day. If your estimated GFR is below a certain level, your doctor will likely not prescribe Kerendia for you.
If you start on a dosage of 10 mg daily, your doctor will likely increase your dosage to 20 tablets. daily after a month. The usual Kerendia maintenance dosage that doctors aim for is 20 tablets. daily. (See the “Dosage adjustments” section below for more information.)
Is Kerendia used long term?
Kerendia is a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor agree that it is safe and effective for your condition, you will likely take it for a long time.
Dosage adjustments
Your doctor can change or decrease your Kerendia dosage based on your health.
If your blood levels get too high, your doctor may stop your dose. They will likely start you on the 10 dose again.
If you have low liver function, your doctor will probably not prescribe Kerendia. They can recommend other treatment options.
The amount of Kerendia you are prescribed may be affected by a number of factors. These include:
- The type and severity of the condition you are treating.
- your kidney function (see “Dosage adjustments” just above)
- your blood potassium levels (see “Dosage adjustments” just above)
- You may take other drugs.
The usual administration of Kerendia is listed below.
Kerendia is a tablet that you swallow. You can take it with or without food. If you have trouble taking tablets, you can also crush the Kerendia tablet and mix it with applesauce or water right before you swallow it. You can also check out this article for helpful tips on swallowing pills.
For information on the expiration, storage, and disposal of Kerendia, see this article.
Accessible drug containers and labels
“If you can’t read the prescription label on your medication, you should tell your doctor or pharmacist. Some pharmacies have labels for medication.”
- Large print or use of blind.
- You can use a code on a phone to change the text to sound.
“If your current pharmacy doesn’t offer accessibility features, your doctor or pharmacist may be able to recommend a new pharmacy.”
Let your pharmacist know if you have trouble opening bottles. They may be able to give Kerendia in a container. They may have tips to make it easier to open the drug container.
If you miss your Kerendia dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you missed your dose, take your next one. Do not take more than one dose. If you are unsure of whether to take the missed dose, call your doctor or the pharmacy.
If you need help remembering to take your dose of Kerendia on time, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or downloading a reminder app on your phone.
If you take more Kerendia than your doctor prescribes, you can have serious side effects.
Symptoms of overdose
An overdose of Kerendia can cause a high level of potassium in your blood. Symptoms include:
- breathing problems
- There is chest pain.
- irregular heartbeat
- Nausea and vomiting.
- weakness or fatigue (low energy)
What to do in case you take too much Kerendia
Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve taken too much Kerendia. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach the American Association of Poison Control Centers or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 (or your local emergency number) or go to the nearest emergency room.
Below are answers to some questions.
Is Kerendia’s dosage calculated by weight?
No, Kerendia’s dosage is not calculated by weight. You’ll likely start with a dosage of 10 mg or 20 tablets. per day. Your dosage will depend on your kidney function and the level of potassium in your blood.
Is there a generic form of Kerendia?
Kerendia is a brand-name drug. It is not currently available in a generic version. Generic drugs are an exact copy of the active drug in a brand-name medication, but they cost less.
If you’re looking for a less expensive alternative, talk with your doctor about other treatment options. You can also look on the manufacturer’s website for ways to save money on your Kerendia treatment.
The dosages provided by the drug manufacturer are described in the sections above. If your doctor recommends Kerendia for you, they will prescribe the correct amount.
Remember, you should not change your dosage of Kerendia without your doctor’s recommendation. Only take Kerendia exactly as prescribed. Talk with your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your current dosage. Here are some examples of questions you may want to ask:
- How can I tell if my potassium level is high enough to affect my Kerendia dose?
- “Should my Kerendia dosage change if it isn’t working well for me?”
- Should I start with a Kerendia dose of 10 mg or 20 tablets.?
- Does my dosage of Kerendia need to change if I’m taking drugs or supplements that interact with the cytochrome P450 system, such as phenytoin or amiodarone?
- Would a different dose reduce my risk of side effects?
Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.