Lokelma

Indications

Lokelma is a medication used for the treatment of hyperkalemia, which is a condition characterized by high levels of potassium in the blood. It works as a potassium binder and is indicated for use in adults.

While Lokelma is not intended to be used as an emergency treatment for life-threatening hyperkalemia, it can be effective in managing the condition over the long term. Lokelma contains the active ingredient sodium zirconium cyclosilicate and is manufactured by AstraZeneca.

Use and Dosage

Lokelma is a potassium binder. It works by binding (attaching) to potassium in your stomach and intestines (gut) so that your body cannot absorb it and then passed through your stool, which lowers the levels of potassium in your blood.

Adults: The typical starting dose is 10 grams mixed with at least 3 tablespoons of water and taken by mouth three times per day, for up to 2 days.

The typical maintenance dose ranges from 5 grams every other day to 15 grams daily. Adults on long-term dialysis: The typical starting dose is 5 to 10 grams mixed with at least 3 tablespoons of water and taken by mouth once per day on non-dialysis days only. The typical maintenance dose ranges from 5 grams to 15 grams once per day on non-dialysis days only.

Side Effects

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your doctor know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common side effects:

• Swelling in the hands, legs, and feet (up to 16%)

Other side effects:

• Low potassium level
• Allergic reactions (skin rash, itching or hives; swelling of the face, lips, or tongue)
• Edema (sudden weight gain; swelling of the ankles, feet, hands, or another unusual swelling; trouble breathing)
• Low potassium levels (trouble breathing; chest pain; dizziness; fast, irregular heartbeat; feeling faint or lightheaded, falls; muscle cramps or pain)

Caution

Before taking sodium zirconium cyclosilicate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of stomach/intestinal problems (such as constipation, blockage), conditions affected by the salt in this medication (such as heart failure, high blood pressure, and swelling/edema), kidney problems.

This medication contains salt (sodium). Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are on a low-salt diet. Your doctor may direct you to adjust the salt in your diet.

People on dialysis may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug, especially when they are sick (such as having diarrhea, eating, or drinking less than usual). Tell your doctor right away if you become sick or have any of these conditions.

Before having an X-ray of your stomach/abdomen, tell X-ray personnel that you are taking this medication.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. This medication is unlikely to pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Lokelma is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Lokelma:
  Powder for Oral Suspension
• Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate:
  • Powder for Oral Suspension

FAQ

Can I take Lokelma with my other medications?

No, Lokelma should be taken by itself because it can change the way your other medications work. Do not take any other medications by mouth for at least 2 hours before and 2 hours after taking your dose of Lokelma.

Can Lokelma be used in children?

Not known if Lokelma is safe or works well in children younger than 18 years old. If your child was diagnosed with high potassium levels, ask your child’s provider about other treatment options, such as sodium polystyrene sulfonate.

Resources:

1. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/207078s000lbl.pdf
2. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/lokelma.html
3. https://reviews.webmd.com/drugs/drugreview-175765-lokelma-oral?drugid=175765&drugname=lokelma-10-gram-powder-packet