Potassium Binder

What are potassium binders?

Potassium binders are medications that help lower high potassium levels. They attach (bind) extra potassium in your body to the stool (poop) in your intestines, which prevents some extra potassium from entering your blood. The excess potassium then leaves your body when you go to the bathroom.

What does potassium do?

Potassium is a positively charged electrolyte. When it dissolves in your bodily fluids, it helps carry an electric charge. Your body needs potassium to function correctly. It helps:

• Muscles in your body, including your heart, expand and contract.
• Nerves send signals.
• Move waste products out of your cells and nutrients into your cells.
• Counteract sodium’s (salt) effects on your blood pressure.

Your body gets potassium through the foods you eat. Your kidneys filter out extra potassium and remove it through your urine (pee). But if you have too much potassium in your blood, your kidneys can’t remove all of it, and it builds up. This buildup can damage your heart and cause potentially fatal abnormal heart rhythms.

What conditions are treated with potassium binders?

Potassium binders treat high amounts of potassium in your blood (hyperkalemia). Healthcare providers usually prescribe potassium binders if changes to your eating patterns and other treatment options don’t lower your potassium levels.

What is a typical potassium level?

A typical potassium level for adults is between 3.5 and 5.0 millimoles per liter (mmol/L). You have hyperkalemia if your levels go above these ranges. Potassium levels that are 6.5 millimoles per liter or higher may be dangerous to your heart.

What drugs are potassium binders?

There are many different types of potassium binders. They include:

• Calcium polystyrene sulfonate.
• Patiromer (Veltassa®).
• Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kionex®).
• Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (Lokelma®).

Are potassium binders commonly prescribed?

Yes, healthcare providers commonly prescribe potassium binders to treat hyperkalemia.

How do I take potassium binders?

Before taking a potassium binder, tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications you’re taking. These include herbal supplements and vitamin supplements. Combining these medications and potassium binders may affect how well they work.

If a healthcare provider prescribes a potassium binder, they’ll instruct you on how to take the medication.

You generally take potassium binders by mouth (orally). They’re usually powders that you mix with water or another liquid and drink. It’s a good idea to take oral potassium binders before you eat.

How long will I need to take potassium binders?

Talk to a healthcare provider. Some potassium binders only have approval for relatively short treatment periods of 30 to 60 days. However, you’re at a greater risk of hyperkalemia if you have kidney disease or take certain heart disease medications, so you may need to take potassium binders long-term.

What are the benefits of potassium binders?

The primary benefit of potassium binders is that they lower the amount of potassium in your body, which helps prevent hyperkalemia.

What are the risks or complications of this treatment?

Common potassium binder complications include:

• Abdominal pain.
• Bloating.
• Constipation.
• Diarrhea.
• Gas and gas pain.
• Heartburn.
• Indigestion (dyspepsia).
• Nausea and vomiting.

Some newer potassium binders may also lower your calcium and magnesium levels.

How long will it take for me to feel better?

Most people who have hyperkalemia don’t have symptoms. However, potassium binders start to lower your potassium levels within 24 hours.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Talk to your healthcare provider if any potassium binder side effects become severe or if you have any severe symptoms of hyperkalemia, including:

• Chest pain.
• Heart palpitations.
• Nausea and vomiting.

What questions should I ask my healthcare provider about potassium binders?

• What type of potassium binder do you recommend?
• What are some potential side effects for your recommended potassium binder?
• Do I take your recommended potassium binder orally?
• How often should I take potassium binders?
• Are there special instructions on taking a potassium binder, such as other medications to avoid while taking it?
• How long do I need to take potassium binders?
• Will you do any tests or monitoring while I’m taking potassium binders to show that they’re working?

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Potassium is an essential mineral and electrolyte that helps your body function properly. However, too much potassium in your body can affect your heart and may be deadly. If you can’t lower your potassium levels through changes to your eating patterns or other medications, your healthcare provider may prescribe a potassium binder. Your provider will work with you to find the right type of potassium binder to reduce your levels.