For a client with chronic kidney disease prescribed aluminum hydroxide, when should this medication be taken?

Aluminum hydroxide is an antacid commonly used to manage hyperphosphatemia in clients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) by binding phosphate in the gastrointestinal tract. It is most effective when taken with meals because it helps neutralize stomach acid and bind with phosphate at the time food is consumed. This increases phosphate binding and excretion when the intake of phosphate-rich foods occurs, which is essential in managing the complications of CKD.

Taking the medication on an empty stomach would not effectively reduce phosphate absorption from food, and recommending it before bedtime does not align with the necessary timing related to meals. Morning administration upon waking alone may not be beneficial due to the absence of food intake at that time, which could diminish its efficacy in phosphate management. Thus, to optimize the therapeutic effects of aluminum hydroxide in the context of chronic kidney disease, it is best taken with meals.