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.
Veltassa (Patiromer)
Prescription Required
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Product Details
Description
Veltassa is a prescription medication indicated for the treatment of hyperkalemia, a condition characterized by elevated levels of potassium in the bloodstream. Symptoms of high potassium may include heart palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, and vomiting. Very high potassium can lead to heart problems and death.
It is classified as a potassium binder and is designed to facilitate the removal of excess potassium from the body. Veltassa is not absorbed into the body. Instead, it contains a calcium-sorbitol counterion that binds potassium in the gastrointestinal tract. This increases fecal excretion of potassium, causing less to be absorbed in the bloodstream.
Directions
The usual starting dosage is 8.4 grams once weekly as needed. It should be taken once weekly until the desired blood level of potassium.
Take Veltassa at least 6 hours before or 6 hours after other oral medications.
Take Veltassa with food. Do not add it to heated foods or liquids. Do not take Veltassa in its dry form.
Take it exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not change how you take it without speaking with your healthcare team.
Ingredients
Veltassa contains the active ingredient patiromer.
Interactions
Common drug-drug interactions may include:
- Bisoprolol
- Carvedilol
- Ciprofloxacin (Systemic)
- Digoxin
- Levothyroxine
- Lithium
- MetFORMIN
- Mycophenolate
- Nebivolol
- Potassium supplements or other potassium-binding agents
- QuiNIDine
- Sodium polystyrene sulfonate
- Telmisartan
- Thiamine
Cautions
Veltassa is not an emergency treatment for hyperkalemia.
Before using Veltassa, inform your healthcare provider about any history of gastrointestinal disorders, swallowing difficulties, or any other medical conditions that may affect the use of this medication.
Veltassa may cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as constipation or diarrhea. If these symptoms become severe or persistent, consult your healthcare provider.
Side Effects
Some of the most common side effects may include:
- Abdominal distress
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Flatulence
- Hypokalemia
- Hypomagnesemia
- Nausea
References
Veltassa [package insert]. Redwood City, CA: Relypsa; 2015.
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 : 13791
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