Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate is a medication utilized in the treatment of hyperkalemia, a condition characterized by elevated levels of potassium in the bloodstream. It is not intended for emergency use in the management of life-threatening hyperkalemia due to its delayed onset of action. Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate belongs to the class of medications referred to as potassium-removing agents and exerts its therapeutic effect by eliminating excess potassium from the body.
Uses and Dosage
Administer this medication orally according to your physician’s instructions. If you are currently taking other medications, ensure that you take them at least 2 hours prior or 2 hours after taking this medication.
Initially, your doctor may instruct you to take this medication three times a day for the first 48 hours, and subsequently, decrease it to once daily or every other day.
Patients undergoing dialysis should only take this medication on non-dialysis days. Follow your doctor’s directions. The dosage is determined based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor will conduct blood tests to monitor your response to this medication.
This medication necessitates mixing before use. Open the packet and empty its contents into a glass filled with roughly 3 tablespoons or more (45 milliliters or more) of water. Stir the mixture and consume it promptly. If any residue remains in the glass, add more water, stir and consume it again. Repeat this process until no powder remains in the glass to ensure complete intake.
For optimal results, use this medication regularly. To aid in remembering, take it at the same time(s) every day.
Notify your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- mild swelling/fluid retention
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- hypokalemia (low potassium)
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
Caution
Prior to taking sodium zirconium cyclosilicate, kindly inform your physician or pharmacist if you have any allergies, including allergies to this medication or any other substances. This product may include inactive constituents that can cause allergic reactions or other complications.
Before using this medication, please notify your physician or pharmacist of your medical history, notably any gastrointestinal disorders, conditions affected by the salt contained in this medication (such as heart failure, hypertension, or swelling/edema), and kidney problems.
This medication contains sodium. If you are following a low-salt diet, kindly inform your physician or pharmacist before taking this medication. Your doctor may recommend modifications to your diet’s salt content.
Individuals undergoing dialysis may be more susceptible to this drug’s effects, especially when they are unwell (such as experiencing diarrhea, or eating or drinking less than usual). If you develop any of these symptoms, please notify your doctor immediately.
If you are pregnant, please inform your doctor before taking this medication.
This medication is unlikely to enter breast milk. Prior to breast-feeding, please consult your doctor.
Form and Strength
Lokelma is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Lokelma powder for oral suspension:
- 3 sachets
- 30 sachets
FAQ
How fast does Lokelma lower potassium?
Lokelma starts to lower your potassium within one hour of taking it. The amount of decrease depends on your starting potassium level. Most patients have normal levels within 24 to 48 hours of treatment.
Can Lokelma cause fluid retention?
The most common side effect of Lokelma is swelling in your body caused by fluid retention.
Resources
- https://www.astrazeneca.ca/content/dam/az-ca/downloads/productinformation/lokelma-consumer-information-leaflet-en.pdf
- https://www.lokelma.com/faq.html#:~:text=The%20most%20common%20side%20effect,body%20caused%20by%20fluid%20retention
- https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/lokelma#side-effects
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-175765/lokelma-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a618035.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/lokelma.html#side-effects
