Patiromer (pa-TIR-oh-mer)

Treats hyperkalemia (high blood potassium levels).

Brand Name(s):

Veltassa

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid

• Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
• Do not heat (including microwave) this medicine or add it to heated food or liquids. Do not swallow the powder directly. It must be mixed with water.
• To use:
  • Measure 1/3 cup of water. Pour half of the water into a glass.
  • Empty the entire contents of a packet into the glass. You may need more than 1 packet for your prescribed dose.
  • Stir the mixture well.
  • Pour the remaining water into the glass containing the mixture and stir thoroughly. The mixture will look cloudy and the powder will not dissolve. Add more water if the mixture is too thick.
  • Drink the mixture right away.
  • If some powder is still in the glass, add more water. Stir this mixture, and drink it right away. Repeat as needed to make sure you get your full dose.
  • You may also use other drinks or soft foods (including apple sauce, pudding, yogurt) instead of water to prepare the mixture.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in the refrigerator. You may also store it at room temperature, but it must be used within 3 months after it is taken out of the refrigerator.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• This medicine may keep other medicines from working properly. Do not use patiromer within 3 hours before or after you take any of the following:
  • Levothyroxine, mycophenolate mofetil, quinidine, thiamine
  • Blood pressure medicine (including bisoprolol, carvedilol, nebivolol, telmisartan, ARBs, beta blockers)
  • Oral diabetes medicine (including metformin)
  • Medicine to treat infection (including ciprofloxacin)

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, bowel blockage, or other bowel movement problems (including constipation or impaction). Tell your doctor if you have had surgery for a bowel movement disorder.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Nausea, vomiting, unusual tiredness or weakness, muscle cramps, confusion
• Severe stomach pain, swelling of the stomach, bloated or full feeling

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Constipation, diarrhea, nausea, passing gas, stomach discomfort

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088