June 2025 Archive — PhosLo and Zyprexa: Practical Guides

This month we published two focused guides you can actually use: a practical primer on PhosLo (a phosphate binder commonly used by people with kidney disease) and a plain-language review of Zyprexa (olanzapine), a widely prescribed antipsychotic. If you or someone you care for is on either drug, read the short takeaways below to spot common issues and small changes that help day-to-day.

PhosLo: what you need to know

PhosLo (calcium acetate) is used to lower phosphate levels in people with chronic kidney disease and those on dialysis. The main point: take it with meals. It binds phosphate from food right in the gut, so timing matters more than dose precision for many patients.

Watch for common side effects like constipation and stomach discomfort. Because PhosLo contains calcium, long-term use can raise blood calcium. That can cause symptoms such as nausea, weakness, or unusual thirst—report those to your clinic. Your care team will check phosphate, calcium, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) regularly; those labs guide dose changes.

Practical tips: always take PhosLo with the first bite, carry it if you travel, and talk to your dietitian about low-phosphate meal swaps (choose lower-dairy or phosphate-free protein options when possible). If you notice persistent constipation, ask about simple remedies—fiber, fluids, or a stool softener—before stopping the binder.

Zyprexa (olanzapine): quick guide

Zyprexa is an effective antipsychotic used for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and sometimes as an adjunct for severe anxiety or depression. It works well for many people but has predictable side effects: sedation, weight gain, elevated blood sugar, and increased lipids. These are the issues clinicians monitor most closely.

Practical advice: if sleepiness is the main problem, taking the dose at night can help. For weight and metabolic risk, pair the medication plan with regular weight checks, fasting glucose and lipid tests, and basic lifestyle steps—walk 20–30 minutes most days and pick small swaps like water instead of sugary drinks. Never stop or adjust the dose on your own; some people need a gradual taper to avoid withdrawal or symptom return.

If you or a family member starts Zyprexa, ask the prescriber about baseline labs and a follow-up schedule. Note movement side effects (restlessness, shaking), which are less common but should be reported quickly so the dose or medication can be reviewed.

Both posts are practical, clinic-focused pieces aimed at helping patients and caregivers spot side effects early and work with providers to manage them. If you want bite-sized checklists from either guide—timing tips for PhosLo or a monitoring checklist for Zyprexa—check the full posts on the site for quick printouts you can bring to appointments.

PhosLo Uses, Side Effects, and Tips for Kidney Health

PhosLo Uses, Side Effects, and Tips for Kidney Health

Everything you need to know about PhosLo: its uses, side effects, and tips on managing phosphate levels for kidney disease and dialysis patients.

Zyprexa: Uses, Side Effects, and What to Know About Olanzapine

Zyprexa: Uses, Side Effects, and What to Know About Olanzapine

This article covers everything you need to know about Zyprexa (olanzapine), from how it works and what it's used for, to its side effects and practical tips for those taking it. You’ll get clear, detailed information on how the medication is prescribed, what you might feel while on it, and how to handle possible challenges. The article breaks down facts about Zyprexa with up-to-date research and real-world advice. Honest insights and helpful stats provide a balanced look at this widely-used mental health medication.