A Comprehensive Monograph on Patiromer (DB09263) for the Management of Hyperkalemia

Executive Summary & Drug Profile

Overview of Patiromer: A Novel Polymer for Hyperkalemia Management

Patiromer is a non-absorbed, cation exchange polymer developed for the oral treatment of hyperkalemia, a condition characterized by elevated potassium levels in the blood.[1] Marketed under the brand name Veltassa, it represents a significant therapeutic advancement, being one of the first new medications approved for this indication in over five decades.[1] This development addresses a long-standing clinical need for effective and well-tolerated agents to manage chronic hyperkalemia, particularly as an alternative to older resins like sodium polystyrene sulfonate, which are often associated with poor tolerability and safety concerns.[4]

Patiromer is classified as a small molecule potassium binder and is specifically indicated for the management of hyperkalemia in adults and pediatric patients aged 12 years and older.[2] A critical limitation of its use, however, is that it is not intended for the emergency treatment of life-threatening hyperkalemia due to its delayed onset of action, which is approximately seven hours.[1] Acute, severe hyperkalemia requires immediate interventions such as intravenous calcium, insulin and glucose infusions, or hemodialysis to rapidly stabilize cardiac cell membranes and shift potassium intracellularly.[1] Patiromer's role is therefore firmly established in the chronic or sub-acute management of elevated potassium levels, where sustained control is the primary therapeutic goal.[4]

Key Therapeutic Attributes and Clinical Role