What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Lokelma (Sodium Zirconium Cyclosilicate)
Prescription Required
We don't have this generic product yet!
Sign up to get exclusive coupon discounts and be the first to be notified when we have this product available.
-
Product Details
Description
Lokelma, a potassium binder, is a prescription medication used to treat adults with high potassium levels in the blood.
However, Lokelma does not work immediately; therefore, it should not be used to treat potassium levels that are emergent and life-threatening.
Lokelma comes in an oral suspension of either 5 grams per packet or 10 grams per packet.
Directions
Follow your doctor's instructions on taking Lokelma. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
It is recommended that patients start on a 10 gram dose by mouth three times a day for up to two days. For continued treatment, 10 grams are recommended to be taken daily. The doctor may decide to adjust the dose as necessary until potassium levels are within target range.
Patients on chronic hemodialysis may need to start on a lower dose.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Lokelma is sodium zirconium cyclosilicate.
Contraindications
There are no contraindications per the most recent Prescribing Information.
Cautions
- Before you begin treatment with Lokelma, discuss the following with your doctor:
- All the prescription and nonprescription medications you take, including herbals, vitamins, and supplements.
- Your allergies.
- Your current health problems and past medical history.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Patients with severe constipation, bowel obstruction or impaction, or any other gastrointestinal motility problem should not take Lokelma.
- Because Lokelma contains sodium, swelling can occur in some patients, particularly at higher doses of the medication. Patients should monitor for signs and symptoms of swelling, especially if they are on a low-sodium diet or have heart failure or kidney disease.
- Low potassium levels in the blood may occur in hemodialysis patients who are taking Lokelma.
- Lokelma may appear as an imaging agent during X-rays on the abdominal region.
Side Effects
The most common side effect of Lokelma is mild to moderate edema; however, other side effects can occur. If you develop side effects that bother you or won't go away, call your doctor immediately.
Reference:
- Lokelma (sodium zirconium cyclosilicate). Wilmington, DE: AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP; 2022.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 13806
-
Product Reviews
