From the Guidelines
Lokelma (sodium zirconium cyclosilicate) contains approximately 400 mg of sodium per 5-gram dose. This information is based on the study published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings in 2021 1. The sodium content of Lokelma is significant and should be considered when prescribing the medication, especially for patients with conditions that require sodium restriction, such as heart failure, hypertension, or edema.
Key Points to Consider
- The standard dosing regimen of 10 grams three times daily during the acute phase would result in an additional 2,400 mg of sodium per day.
- During the maintenance phase, typically 5-10 grams once daily, patients would receive 400-800 mg of sodium daily.
- The sodium in Lokelma comes from the drug's chemical structure as sodium zirconium cyclosilicate, which works by binding potassium in the gastrointestinal tract in exchange for sodium and hydrogen.
- Healthcare providers should account for this additional sodium intake when prescribing Lokelma and may need to adjust other aspects of the patient's treatment plan accordingly.
Clinical Implications
The sodium content of Lokelma is a critical consideration in clinical practice, particularly for patients with sodium-restricted diets. As noted in the study 1, the medication's mechanism of action involves the exchange of potassium for sodium and hydrogen in the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, it is essential to monitor patients' sodium intake and adjust their treatment plans as needed to minimize potential adverse effects.
From the FDA Drug Label
Each 5 g dose of LOKELMA contains approximately 400 mg of sodium, but the extent of absorption by the patient is unknown.
The sodium content of Lokelma is approximately 400 mg per 5 g dose. However, the extent of absorption by the patient is unknown 2.
From the Research
Lokelma Sodium Content
- The sodium content of Lokelma (sodium zirconium cyclosilicate) is not explicitly stated in the provided studies as a specific amount per dose 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
- However, it is mentioned that sodium zirconium cyclosilicate exchanges hydrogen and sodium for potassium and ammonium ions in the gastrointestinal tract, which implies that it does contain sodium 3.
- The studies primarily focus on the efficacy and safety of Lokelma in treating hyperkalemia, rather than its sodium content 4, 5, 6, 7.
- Therefore, while it is known that Lokelma contains sodium, the exact amount of sodium per dose is not specified in the provided evidence.