Veltassa

About Veltassa

• Veltassa is available in powder suspension form for oral administration and the active ingredient is Patiromer sorbitex calcium.
• Veltassa acts by binding excess potassium in the colon and removing it from the body without being absorbed.
• Veltassa increases fecal potassium excretion through potassium binding in the lumen of the gastrointestinal tract which reduces the concentration of free potassium in the gastrointestinal lumen, resulting in a lowering of serum potassium levels.

Strength:

Veltassa is an off-white to light-brown powder for oral suspension meant for single-use packets containing 8.4 grams, 16.8 grams, or 25.2 grams of Patiromer.

Recommended Dosage:

• The recommended dose of Patiromer is 8.4 grams once daily
• Serum potassium should be monitored and accordingly dose of Patiromer should be adjusted and the dose may be increased or decreased for the desired serum potassium concentration, up to a maximum dose of 25.2 grams once daily.
• The dose can be up-titrated based on serum levels of potassium at one week or longer time intervals, in increments of 8.4 grams.
• Veltassa should be administered at least 6 hours before or after other oral medications.
• Veltassa should be administered with food. Do not heat Veltassa or add it to heated foods.
• Do not use Veltassa in its dry powder form.

Preparation of Veltassa:

• Add about 30 mL of water to an empty glass.
• Empty the entire packet(s) into the glass and stir the mixture thoroughly so that the powder dissolves and the mixture looks cloudy.
• Add an additional 60 mL of water to the glass or cup containing the mixture.
• Stir the mixture thoroughly; the powder is not dissolved completely.
• Drink the mixture immediately ensuring nothing remains in the glass and if some powder remains, add more water by stirring and drink immediately.

Warnings & Precautions

• Worsening of Gastrointestinal motility
• Hypomagnesemia

Common Veltassa Side Effects

• Constipation
• Hypomagnesemia
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Abdominal discomfort
• Flatulence

Use in Specific Population

Pregnancy: Veltassa is not absorbed in blood bloodstream following oral administration and maternal use is not expected to have fetal risk.

Pediatric use: Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients has not been established.

Storage and Handling

• Veltassa powder should be refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).
• If Veltassa is stored at room temperature (25°C ± 2°C [77°F ± 4°F]) it must be used within 3 months of being taken out from refrigeration.
• Do not use Veltassa after the product has expired.
• Exposure to excessive heat above 40°C (104°F) should be avoided.