What is Kerendia: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Medically reviewed by Gerardo SisonPharm.D.
Licensed Pharmacist
Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Aug 17, 2021
Fact Checked

Kerendia is a medication prescribed for adults with chronic kidney disease associated with Type 2 diabetes. It comes as an oral tablet that’s taken once daily. It is used to help reduce the risk of worsening kidney function, heart attack, hospitalization for heart failure, and other cardiovascular complications. While Kerendia can be an effective medication, it may cause side effects. Therefore, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for medical advice before starting treatment with Kerendia.

Kerendia overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Kerendia

Generic Names:

  • Finerenone

Uses:

  • Treats chronic kidney disease in adults with Type 2 diabetes

  • Prevents cardiovascular complications in adults with CKD and Type 2 diabetes

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA)

Forms:

  • Tablet

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Kerendia used for?

Kerendia is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat chronic kidney disease and prevent cardiovascular complications in people with Type 2 diabetes. It contains the active drug finerenone, which works as a nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA). It helps slow down kidney damage, reducing the risk of kidney failure. In addition, Kerendia benefits cardiovascular health by lowering the risk of cardiovascular death, heart attack, and hospitalization for heart failure.

Key takeaways

  • Kerendia is administered as a once-daily oral tablet for the treatment of chronic kidney disease in adults with Type 2 diabetes. The dosage prescribed may depend on your kidney function, which is measured by the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Your healthcare provider will also check your potassium levels and overall health condition before prescribing the medication. 

  • Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Dosage adjustments may be made based on your response to the medication.

  • Before starting treatment with Kerendia, tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions or medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicine, and herbal supplements. This information can help determine your risk for potential drug interactions and adverse effects. 

  • As with any medication, Kerendia may cause side effects in some individuals. One of the most common side effects of Kerendia is an increase in blood potassium levels. Report any adverse reactions to your healthcare provider, including other side effects or symptoms.

What form(s) does Kerendia come in

  • Tablet

    • 10 mg

    • 20 mg

What are common Kerendia doses?

  • 1, 10 mg tablet of Kerendia per day

  • 1, 20 mg tablet of Kerendia per day

Common Kerendia prescriptions

  • Kerendia
    10mg tablet

  • Kerendia
    20mg tablet

How to take Kerendia

  • Take one tablet of Kerendia per day.

  • Your healthcare provider will advise you on the correct dose and how much medicine to take. Do not use more than directed or prescribed.

  • Swallow the tablet whole. If you’re unable to swallow a whole tablet, Kerendia can be crushed and mixed with water or applesauce immediately before taking it.

  • Always follow the instructions from your healthcare provider or those found on the prescription label.

  • Maintain consistency in the timing of your dose. Taking it at the same time every day may help improve its effectiveness.

  • Store the medication at room temperature, away from light and heat.

  • Do not stop taking Kerendia before talking with your healthcare provider.

What to do if you miss a dose of Kerendia

  • Take a missed dose of Kerendia as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next scheduled dose, wait until then and take the regular dose.

  • Do not take two doses of Kerendia on the same day to make up for a missed dose.

Kerendia contraindications

  • Kerendia should be avoided in people experiencing adrenal insufficiency, as it can affect aldosterone-related issues. Adrenal insufficiency is a condition in which the adrenal glands do not adequately produce certain hormones, including cortisol and aldosterone. 

  • Kerendia should not be used in combination with medications known as strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Examples of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors include ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir, and clarithromycin. These medications can increase the levels of Kerendia in the blood, which can cause an increased risk of adverse effects.

Kerendia warnings

  • The use of Kerendia may increase the risk of high potassium levels, especially if you have kidney problems or already elevated potassium. Symptoms of high potassium levels may include muscle weakness, fatigue, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat, and chest pain. 

  • Regular blood tests to check your potassium levels are necessary if you're taking Kerendia.

  • Consult your doctor before using any potassium supplements or salt substitutes that contain potassium.

  • Avoid medications that are strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers; ask your doctor for alternatives that don't affect Kerendia.

  • Do not consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as they can significantly increase Kerendia's effects on your body.

  • Breastfeeding is not recommended during Kerendia treatment and for one day after the last dose.

Kerendia interactions

  • Avoid strong CYP3A4 inhibitors: These can increase the levels of Kerendia in your body, leading to possible adverse effects. Use of these medications with Kerendia is not recommended. Examples include:

    • Certain antifungals (such as ketoconazole)

    • Some antibiotics (like clarithromycin)

    • Some HIV protease inhibitors (such as ritonavir)

  • Be cautious with moderate and weak CYP3A4 inhibitors: These may also increase Kerendia levels, so close monitoring is required. Dosage adjustments for Kerendia might also be necessary. These drugs may include:

    • Certain calcium channel blockers (such as diltiazem)

    • Some antidepressants (like fluoxetine)

  • Avoid strong and moderate CYP3A4 inducers: These can decrease the levels of Kerendia, reducing its effectiveness. Examples include:

    • Some antiepileptics (like phenytoin)

    • Certain antibiotics (such as rifampin)

    • Some herbal supplements like St. John's Wort

  • Monitor potassium levels while taking drugs that affect potassium: Certain medications or supplements can increase potassium, which may require more frequent monitoring. These can include:

    • Potassium supplements

    • ACE inhibitors

    • ARBs (angiotensin receptor blockers)

    • Some diuretics

  • Grapefruit juice is known to inhibit CYP3A4 and may also increase the blood levels of Kerendia. Avoiding grapefruit juice while on this medication is recommended.

Kerendia side effects

Like other medications, Kerendia may have potential side effects. These adverse reactions can vary in severity and occurrence. It's not uncommon for different people to experience different effects while on this medication.

Serious side effects:

  • Hyperkalemia: Elevated potassium levels in the blood, which could lead to various symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, numbness, or palpitations.

  • Hypotension: Low blood pressure, potentially causing dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, or blurred vision.

  • Hyponatremia: Reduced sodium levels in the blood, which might result in confusion, headaches, fatigue, and, in severe cases, seizures or coma.

Consult your healthcare provider if you experience any side effects that persist or worsen. If you notice any changes in your health or experience unexplained symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Sources:

Medically reviewed by Gerardo SisonPharm.D.
Licensed Pharmacist

Gerardo Sison, Pharm.D., graduated from the University of Florida. He has worked in both community and hospital settings, providing drug information and medication therapy management services. As a medical writer, he hopes to educate and empower patients to better manage their health and navigate their treatment plans.

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