Lokelma (Sodium Zirconium Cyclosilicate Hydrate)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Lokelma Used For?
Lokelma is a medication used to lower high potassium levels in the blood, a condition known as hyperkalaemia.
Primary Uses
It is primarily used to treat hyperkalaemia in adults.
How It Works
Lokelma works by binding to potassium in the gastrointestinal tract, allowing it to be excreted from the body through stools.
Good to know: Lokelma is not addictive.
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How to Take Lokelma
Follow your doctor's instructions on how to take Lokelma.
Dosage Instructions
The starting dose is 10 g taken three times a day for up to three days, followed by a maintenance dose of 5 g once daily. For patients on haemodialysis, the starting dose is 5 g once a day on non-dialysis days.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not double the dose.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Muscle weakness
- Tiredness
- Muscle cramps
- Swelling in feet and ankles
- Fluid retention
- Constipation
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Worsening of heart failure
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before taking Lokelma.
Who Should Not Take Lokelma
Do not take Lokelma if you are under 18 years of age, pregnant, or allergic to sodium zirconium cyclosilicate.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have heart failure, a heart signaling disorder, or if you need an X-ray.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Do not use Lokelma if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not expected to affect breastfed infants.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Lokelma and affect its efficacy.
- Diuretics
- ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril)
- Angiotensin receptor blockers (e.g., valsartan)
- Renin inhibitors (e.g., aliskiren)
- Tacrolimus
- Ketoconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole
- HIV medications (e.g., atazanavir, ritonavir)
- Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (e.g., erlotinib)
Alcohol & Driving
Lokelma is unlikely to impair your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Alcohol
No specific warnings about alcohol consumption were mentioned.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be cautious until you know how Lokelma affects you.
Storage
Store Lokelma in a cool, dry place away from children. Do not use past the expiration date.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lokelma typically takes one to two days to start working.
You can take Lokelma with or without meals.
No, Lokelma is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Lokelma or change your dosage without consulting your doctor.
There are no specific warnings regarding alcohol consumption while taking Lokelma.
Weight gain is not mentioned as a side effect of Lokelma.
Elderly patients should consult their doctor before taking Lokelma, especially if they have heart conditions.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.