Patiromer

Generic name: patiromer [ PAT-i-ROE-mer ]
Brand name: Veltassa
Dosage form: oral powder for reconstitution (16.8 g; 25.2 g; 8.4 g)
Drug class: Cation exchange resins

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Mar 21, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is patiromer?

Patiromer is a medicine that binds itself to potassium in your digestive tract. This helps prevent your body from absorbing too much potassium. Patiromer also helps your body get rid of excess potassium through your stools (bowel movements).

Patiromer is used to treat hyperkalemia (high levels of potassium in your blood).

Patiromer works differently from other medicines because it passes through your stomach and into your intestines without being absorbed into your blood stream.

Patiromer may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Avoid taking other medicines by mouth within 3 hours before or 3 hours after you take patiromer.

Before taking this medicine

To make sure patiromer is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• bowel obstruction;

• severe constipation; or

• bowel problems caused by recent surgery.

Because patiromer is not absorbed into the blood stream, patiromer is not expected to be harmful during pregnancy or while nursing a baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Patiromer is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I take patiromer?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Patiromer is usually taken once daily with food.

Patiromer oral powder must be mixed with water before you take it. Stir this mixture well and drink all of it right away. To make sure you get the entire dose, add a little more water to the same glass, swirl gently and drink right away.

Do not mix patiromer oral powder with hot liquid or hot food. Do not take the dry powder without mixing it with water.

While using patiromer, you may need frequent blood tests.

Patiromer may be only part of a treatment program that also includes a special diet. Follow your doctor's instructions very closely.

Store unmixed oral powder in the refrigerator. Do not open a medicine packet until you are ready to mix a dose.

You may also store patiromer at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose may cause low potassium (leg cramps, constipation, fluttering in your chest, thirst, urination, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness or limp feeling).

What should I avoid while taking patiromer?

Avoid taking other medicines within 3 hours before or 3 hours after you take patiromer. Patiromer can make it harder for your body to absorb other medicines you take by mouth. This could make the other medicines less effective.

Patiromer side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Patiromer may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• back-and-forth movements of the eyes;

• a seizure (convulsions);

• muscle pain or weakness;

• numbness; or

• tiredness.

Common side effects of patiromer may include:

• constipation, diarrhea;

• stomach pain, nausea; or

• gas.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Patiromer dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Hyperkalemia:

Initial dose: 8.4 g orally once a day
-Monitor serum potassium level and adjust dose in 8.4 mg increments at 1-week intervals based on serum potassium level and desired target range
Maintenance dose: 8.4 to 25.2 mg/day
Maximum dose 25.2 g/day

Comments:
-This drug should not be used as an emergency treatment for life-threatening hyperkalemia because of its delayed onset of action.
-This drug should be administered at least 3 hours before or 3 hours after other oral medications.

Use: For the treatment of hyperkalemia.

What other drugs will affect patiromer?

Other drugs may interact with patiromer, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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