Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate is used to treat high potassium levels in the blood.
Take Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate is available as a powder for oral suspension in a sachet. Empty the entire contents of the sachet into a glass. Add at least 45 mL of plain (non-carbonated) water. Stir to disperse the powder evenly in the water, then drink the suspension immediately. Take note that the powder does not dissolve and the liquid appears to be cloudy. If the powder remains in the glass, rinse the glass with more water, stir and drink quickly. Repeat until no powder remains in the glass to make sure that you have taken your complete dose.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the severity of your condition.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- heart failure (weakness and inability of the heart to pump blood)
- sodium-restricted diet
- kidney disease or undergoing dialysis
- problems with your bowel movement e.g. severe constipation, bowel obstruction
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you are going to have certain procedure or tests (e.g. X-ray), inform your doctor that you are taking Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate.
For as long as you are taking this medicine, you may need to have regular blood tests (e.g. potassium level) to check your body’s response to the medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have blood tests.
Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate may cause any of the following side effects: constipation and nausea.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- muscle weakness or cramping, feeling tired
- swelling of the ankles, feet or hand
- sudden or severe pain in the abdomen
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines to treat fungal infection e.g. itraconazole, ketoconazole, posaconazole
- medicines for HIV infection e.g. atazanavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, nelfinavir
- medicines for cancer e.g. dasatinib, erlotinib, nilotinib
- dabigatran (blood-thinning medicine)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.