Everything You Need to Know About Lokelma Prescribing Information
If you are a healthcare provider, you might have come across Lokelma, a drug used to treat high levels of potassium in the blood. It is vital to understand its prescribing information to ensure safe and effective treatment. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about Lokelma’s prescribing information.
What is Lokelma?
Lokelma (sodium zirconium cyclosilicate) is a potassium binder that helps reduce high levels of potassium in the blood. It works by exchanging sodium ions for potassium ions in the gastrointestinal tract, preventing potassium absorption. Lokelma is available as a powder for oral suspension and is taken by mixing it with water.
Indications for Use
Lokelma is indicated for the treatment of hyperkalemia, a condition characterized by increased levels of potassium in the blood. It is used in adults who are at risk of developing or have a history of hyperkalemia. It can also be used in patients with end-stage renal disease who are undergoing hemodialysis.
Dosage and Administration
Lokelma should be taken orally with or without food. The treatment duration depends on the patient’s condition and response to treatment. The recommended starting dose is 10 g taken three times a day for the first 48 hours. After that, the dose can be adjusted based on the patient’s serum potassium level. The maximum recommended daily dose is 15 g.
Contraindications and Precautions
Lokelma is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to sodium zirconium cyclosilicate or any of its components. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe bowel obstruction, ileus, or bowel perforation.
Before prescribing Lokelma, healthcare providers should monitor serum potassium levels and assess the patient’s ability to tolerate the drug. Lokelma may cause gastrointestinal adverse reactions such as nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
Drug Interactions
Lokelma may interact with other drugs, including thiazide diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and angiotensin receptor blockers. These drugs can cause potassium retention, leading to hyperkalemia. Healthcare providers should monitor serum potassium levels when Lokelma is used in combination with these drugs.
Conclusion
Lokelma is a useful drug for the treatment of hyperkalemia in adults. Healthcare providers should understand its prescribing information, dosage, administration, contraindications, precautions, and drug interactions to ensure safe and effective treatment. By following the guidelines and monitoring serum potassium levels, healthcare providers can provide optimal care to their patients with hyperkalemia.
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