Veltassa (Patiromer)
Patiromer is used to treat hyperkalemia (high levels of potassium in your blood) in adults and children at least 12 years old.
Patiromer may also be used in adults for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
warnings
What is the most important information I should know about Veltassa (Patiromer)?
You should not use patiromer if you are allergic to it, or if you have or have ever had:
- bowel obstruction;
- surgery on your stomach or intestines;
- a severe stomach or intestinal disorder;
- bowel problems caused by recent surgery;
- trouble swallowing;
- severe constipation; or
- low levels of magnesium in your blood.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Side Effects
What are the side effects of Veltassa (Patiromer)?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- new or worsening stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, heartburn, or constipation;
- low blood magnesium--dizziness, irregular heartbeats, feeling jittery, muscle cramps, muscle spasms, cough or choking feeling; or
- low blood potassium--leg cramps, constipation, irregular heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, increased thirst or urination, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness or limp feeling.
Common side effects may include:
- low blood magnesium levels;
- constipation, diarrhea;
- stomach discomfort, nausea; or
- gas.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Can I take Veltassa (Patiromer) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Interactions
What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Veltassa (Patiromer)?
Avoid taking other medicines within 3 hours before or 3 hours after you take patiromer. Patiromer can make it harder for your body to absorb other medicines you take by mouth.
Dosage Guidelines & Tips
How to take Veltassa (Patiromer)?
Use Veltassa (Patiromer) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Patiromer is usually taken once daily with or without food.
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.
Patiromer oral powder should be mixed with water before you take it. Stir well and drink right away. If powder remains in the glass after drinking, add more water, stir, and drink right away; repeat as needed until you take the full dose.
Do not heat or mix patiromer oral powder with hot liquid or hot food. Do not take the dry powder without mixing it with water.
You can mix patiromer oral powder with other beverages or soft food like apple sauce, yogurt, or pudding instead of water.
While taking patiromer, your blood will need to be tested often and your dose may be changed based on the results.
You may be given other medications to help prevent serious side effects. Keep taking these medicines for as long as your doctor has prescribed.
You may need to follow a special diet. Follow all instructions of your doctor or dietitian. Learn about the foods you should eat or avoid.
Store unmixed oral powder in the refrigerator. Do not open a medicine packet until you are ready to mix a dose.
If stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat, you should use this medication within 3 months.
Take the missed dose on the same day you remember it. Take your next dose at the regular time and stay on your once-daily schedule. Do not take two doses in one day.