Veltassa

Veltassa is a potassium binder used for the treatment of hyperkalemia. This drug is contraindicated for use as an emergency treatment for life-threatening hyperkalemia. This drug requires a prescription.

Before using Veltassa, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it. Inform your healthcare provider for any allergic reactions to these drugs or any other drugs, foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. Carefully read the label of non-prescription drugs for any possible allergic reaction or contraindications.

Studies in children regarding the correlation of age to the effects of patiromer have not been performed while safety and efficacy have not been established. Studies in the elderly have not demonstrated any geriatric-specific problems that would limit the utility of patiromer. Adjustments in the dose of the elderly may be required since they are more likely to have unwanted side effects.

Drugs should not be taken together to prevent any interactions but in necessary cases inquire your healthcare provider regarding the adjustments in dosage or any other necessary precautions to prevent any unwanted side effects. Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription drugs.

Intake of specific food or using alcohol or tobacco with this drug is associated with an increased risk of certain side effects. Your healthcare professional can give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Inform your healthcare provider for any other medical problems such as:

• Bowel blockage
• Constipation
• Impaction

Proper usage of Veltassa requires strict adherence to your doctor’s orders. This drug should be taken with food. Heating this drug or adding to heated foods or liquids is not recommended. Taking this drug in its dry form is not recommended.

The entire contents of a packet must be emptied into a glass or cup containing 30 milliliters of water. 60 mL of water must be added and stirred. Drink the mixture immediately. If some powder remains in the glass, add more water, stir, and drink immediately.

Use Veltassaв 6 hours before or 6 hours after using another drug, as Veltassa may keep other drugs from working properly. The dose of this drug will be variable for different patients. The directions on the label or the prescription by your healthcare professional should be followed.

The dosage of this drug you take depends on the medical problem for which you are using this drug. Adults with hyperkalemia are initially given 8.4 grams once a day. Your healthcare professional may increase your dose if necessary.

The dose must not exceed 25.2 grams once a day. Use and dose in children must be determined by your healthcare professional. A missed dose should be taken as soon as possible. However, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule if it is almost time for your next dose.

Store the drug in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing. Keep out of the reach of children. Dispose any outdated or expired drugs and ask your healthcare professional for the proper disposal of the drugs.

Before using Veltassa, there are some precautions you must take. Regular visits should be made to your healthcare provider to track your progress and to monitor the effectiveness of the drug.

Unwanted effects can be screened using blood tests. This drug may cause hypomagnesemia.

Check with your healthcare professional immediately if you have:

• Drowsiness
• Loss of appetite
• Mood or mental changes
• Muscle spasms or twitching
• Seizures
• Nausea or vomiting
• Trembling or unusual tiredness
• Weakness

Make sure you meet with your doctor in using Veltassa to avoid unwanted potential side effects. Side effects may vary for each individual and prompt medical attention should be given if they occur.

Seek advice from your healthcare professional immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms such as:

• Drowsiness
• Loss of appetite
• Mood or mental changes
• Muscle spasms or twitching
• Nausea or vomiting
• Seizures
• Trembling
• Unusual tiredness
• Weakness

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. As your body adjusts to the medicine, the side effects will slowly disappear. Ask your healthcare professional about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

If any of the following side effects persists or are inconvenient, or if you notice any other effects, or if you have any questions about them, consult with your health care professional. Report any side effects to the FDA hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088.