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Lokelma Coupon - Lokelma 10g packet

Lokelma

sodium zirconium cyclosilicate
Used for Hyperkalemia
Used for Hyperkalemia

Lokelma, also known by its generic name sodium zirconium cyclosilicate, is used to treat adults with high potassium levels (hyperkalemia). It belongs to the class of medications called potassium binders. The medication comes as a packet of powder that's mixed with 3 tablespoons of water. Dosing is usually adjusted based on your blood potassium levels, but after the first two days of treatment, it's typically taken by mouth once a day. The most common side effect is swelling from too much fluid.

Last reviewed on July 8, 2024
basics-icon

What is Lokelma?

What is Lokelma used for?

How Lokelma works

Lokelma is a potassium binder. It works by attaching to potassium in the gut so your body doesn't absorb it. Instead, the potassium leaves your body through your stool, which helps lower the potassium in your blood.

When does Lokelma start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsLokelma
Drug ClassPotassium binder
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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GoodRx discount
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What are the side effects of Lokelma?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider 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 levels
  • Constipation
When do Lokelma possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Low potassium levels
Swelling in the hands, legs, and feet
Constipation
If a line continues to the right, you'll likely keep experiencing this side effect once it starts.

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Lokelma

thumbs-up

Pros

Works well to lower potassium levels

Generally well tolerated with few side effects

Not absorbed in your body, so it's expected to be safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding

thumbs-down

Cons

Can't be used to quickly lower high potassium level in emergency situations

Only available as a powder that needs to be mixed with water

Not known whether it's safe for use in children

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Lokelma

pharmacist
  • To prepare your dose of Lokelma, empty the contents of the packet into a drinking glass with at least 3 tablespoons (45 mL) of water. Stir well and drink right away.

    • If Lokelma powder remains in your glass after drinking, add more water, stir, and drink again. Repeat until there isn't anymore powder in the glass. This is to make sure you take the entire dose.

      • Lokelma can change how much other medications are absorbed into your body. Don't take any other medications by mouth for at least 2 hours before and 2 hours after taking your dose of Lokelma.

        • Since there are many other medications that can change your potassium levels (e.g., ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or spironolactone), don't start any new medications while taking Lokelma without speaking to your prescriber first. Also, make sure to tell your care team about all the medications you take before starting Lokelma.

          • You might need to eat a low-sodium diet while taking Lokelma. This is because the medication contains sodium, and too much sodium can cause fluid build-up in your body. If you get swelling in your arms or legs, shortness of breath, need to sleep with multiple pillows, or have sudden weight gain, contact your prescriber.

            • If you get constipation while taking Lokelma, let your prescriber know. They might recommend a lower dose or stopping treatment altogether.

              • Let your prescriber know if you feel unwell (e.g., diarrhea, lower appetite) because this might put you at high risk for low potassium levels. Your dose of Lokelma might need to be changed during this time.

                • Lokelma can interfere with X-ray readings in the stomach area. If you're scheduled for an X-ray of your stomach, contact your prescriber for instructions on whether or not you should continue taking Lokelma.

                  faqs

                  Frequently asked questions about Lokelma

                  How much does Lokelma lower potassium?
                  Studies show that people taking 10 grams of Lokelma three times a day lowered their potassium levels by about 1 mEq/L. Those who responded well to the medication had normal blood potassium levels for up to 1 year while continuing the treatment. Talk to your prescriber if you're concerned with how well Lokelma is working for you.
                  Does Lokelma cause diarrhea?
                  No, Lokelma doesn't typically cause diarrhea. If you're experiencing diarrhea, contact your primary care provider so they can help identify what might be causing it.
                  Can you mix Lokelma with juice?
                  No, only mix Lokelma with at about 3 tablespoons of water. Don't mix it with any other liquid or foods.
                  How long does Lokelma take to work?
                  Studies show that Lokelma starts to work within 2 days to lower potassium. The medication will help keep your potassium levels within the normal range, but it might continue to lower your potassium levels slightly further. Your prescriber will regularly check your blood potassium levels throughout treatment and adjust your dose as needed.
                  Does Lokelma affect the kidneys?
                  No, Lokelma isn't absorbed into your body, so it doesn't affect or damage the kidneys. It attaches to potassium in your gut and is then passed through your stool. Treatment of high potassium levels (hyperkalemia) is often for people who already have kidney problems.
                  What's the difference between Lokelma and Kayexalate?
                  Both Lokelma and Kayexalate (sodium polystyrene sulfonate) are phosphate binders used to treat high potassium levels, but they're not the same. Lokelma can only be taken by mouth in adults and the typical maintenance dose ranges from once per day to once every other day (after completing a higher starting dose). Kayexalate can be used in children and adults and can be taken by mouth or rectally, up to 4 times per day. Comparing the two, Lokelma tends to have less side effects than Kayexalate. Discuss the best option with your healthcare professional.
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                  What are the risks and warnings for Lokelma?

                  Lokelma can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                  risk-warning

                  Worsening of stomach problems

                  • Risk factors: Severe constipation | Blockage in your gut | Delayed bowel movement problems after surgery

                    If you have certain stomach problems, such as blockage in your gut or severe constipation, speak to your prescriber before taking Lokelma. In these instances, the medication might not work as well and can worsen these problems.

                    risk-warning

                    Swelling

                    • Risk factors: Heart failure | Kidney problems | Eating or drinking too much sodium | Taking 15 grams of Lokelma daily

                      Taking Lokelma can lead to swelling in your arms, legs, or other places in your body because it contains sodium. While the swelling is typically mild or moderate, it can be dangerous for people who have certain medical conditions, such as heart failure and kidney problems, who need to limit how much salt they take in. If you get any swelling in your arms or legs, feel short of breath, need to sleep with multiple pillows, or have sudden weight gain, contact your prescriber.

                      risk-warning

                      Low potassium level (people on hemodialysis)

                      • Risk factors: Stomach symptoms (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea) | Low appetite | People on hemodialysis | Taking medications that lower potassium

                        Taking Lokelma raises your risk for low potassium levels (hypokalemia). Your risk is higher if you're sick and aren't eating as much (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea) or if you're taking medications (e.g., loop diuretics) that lower your potassium level. Contact your prescriber if you become sick or start any new medications because you might need to have your dose lowered or get lab work done to check your potassium level.

                        dosage

                        Lokelma dosage forms

                        Typical dosing for Lokelma

                        Your dose is based on your potassium level and if you're getting side effects.

                        In general:

                        • Adults:

                          • The typical starting dose is 10 grams 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 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.

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                        alternatives

                        What are alternatives to Lokelma?

                        There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Lokelma. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
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                        white - LOKELMA 10g Powder for Suspension
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                        white - LOKELMA 10g Powder for Suspension
                        This medicine is White Packet.white - LOKELMA 10g Powder for Suspension
                        white - LOKELMA 10g Powder for Suspension
                        This medicine is White Packet.white - LOKELMA 10g Powder for Suspension

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                        References

                        Best studies we found

                        AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP. (2024). Lokelma- sodium zirconium cyclosilicate powder, for suspension [package insert]. DailyMed.

                        Hoy, S. M. (2018). Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate: A review in hyperkalaemia. Drugs.

                        National Kidney Foundation. (2023). Dialysis.

                        View All References (2)

                        Packham, D. K., et al. (2015). Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate in hyperkalemia. The New England Journal of Medicine.

                        Roger, S. D., et al. (2019). Efficacy and Safety of sodium zirconium cyclosilicate for treatment of hyperkalemia: An 11-month open-label extension of HARMONIZE. American Journal of Nephrology.

                        GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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