Keywords

chronic kidney disease (CKD), hyperkalemia, patiromer, potassium binder, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC)

 

Authors

  1. Earl, Grace PharmD, BCACP

Abstract

Abstract: Two medications that bind potassium in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract are indicated for hyperkalemia management. Patiromer and sodium zirconium cyclosilicate have been studied in patients with chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and heart failure. Recent studies have examined the role of potassium binders as maintenance therapy to control hyperkalemia in high-risk patients. This strategy has an added advantage of allowing continuation of concomitant medications affecting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. These medications are generally well tolerated but may cause GI symptoms and hypomagnesemia.