Lokelma Side Effects

Generic name: sodium zirconium cyclosilicate

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Apr 21, 2025.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Lokelma.

Applies to sodium zirconium cyclosilicate: oral powder for suspension Side Effects associated with sodium zirconium cyclosilicate. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Lokelma.

Applies to sodium zirconium cyclosilicate: oral powder for suspension.

Precautions

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure that this medicine is working properly and to check for unwanted effects.

This medicine may cause swelling in the different parts of your body. This is more likely if you have heart failure or kidney disease. You may also need to adjust your sodium intake while using this medicine. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.

Before you have any medical tests, tell the medical doctor in charge that you are taking this medicine. The results of some tests (eg, abdominal or stomach X-ray) may be affected by this medicine.

Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.

Serious side effects of Lokelma

Along with its needed effects, sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (the active ingredient contained in Lokelma) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking sodium zirconium cyclosilicate:

For healthcare professionals

Applies to sodium zirconium cyclosilicate: oral powder for reconstitution.

General adverse events

The most commonly reported adverse reactions reported during clinical trials included edema and hypokalemia.^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Very common (10% or more): Edema (up to 16.1%)

During clinical trials, edema was reported in 4.4% of patients receiving 5 g/day, 5.9% of patients receiving 10 g/day and 16.1% of patients receiving 15 g/day for up to 28 days (placebo 2.4%). In longer-term trials, 8% to 11% of patients receiving doses less than 15 g/day reported edema, generalized edema and peripheral edema.

Metabolic

• Common (1% to 10%): Hypokalemia
• Frequency not reported: Increase in sodium bicarbonate concentrations

In clinical trials, 4.1% of patients developed hypokalemia which resolved with dose reduction or discontinuation.

Small, dose-dependent increases in sodium bicarbonate occurred with once daily dosing (1.1 mmol/L at 5 g/day; 2.3 mmol/L at 10 g/day; 2.6 mmol/L at 15 g/day; 0.6 mmol/L in placebo). The clinical significance of this is unknown.

See also:

Frequently asked questions

• How does the drug Lokelma work?

Further information

Lokelma side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer