Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-26-2024
Publication Title
Cureus
Abstract
Hyperkalemia has been defined as a condition where a serum potassium level is > 5.5 mmol/l. It is associated with fatal dysrhythmias and muscular dysfunction. Certain medical conditions, such as chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes mellitus, and others, can lead to hyperkalemia. Many of the signs of hyperkalemia are nonspecific. A history and physical examination can be beneficial in the diagnosis of the condition. In this regard, certain characteristic electrocardiogram findings are associated with hyperkalemia along with laboratory potassium levels. In acute and potentially lethal conditions, hyperkalemia treatments include glucose and insulin, bicarbonate, calcium gluconate, beta-2 agonists, hyperventilation, and dialysis. There are several drugs, both old and new, that can additionally aid in the reduction of serum potassium levels. The present investigation evaluated some of these different drugs, including sodium polystyrene sulfonate (SPS), sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC), and patiromer. These drugs each have increased selectivity for potassium and work primarily in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Each of these medications has unique benefits and contraindications. Clinicians must be aware of these medications when managing patients with hyperkalemia.
First Page
e52994
PubMed ID
38406030
Volume
16
Issue
1
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Sinnathamby, Evan S.; Banh, Kelly T.; Barham, William T.; Hernandez, Tyler D.; De Witt, Audrey J.; Wenger, Danielle M.; Klapper, Vincent G.; McGregor, David; Paladini, Antonella; Ahmadzadeh, Shahab; Shekoohi, Sahar; Kaye, Alan D.; and Varrassi, Giustino, "Hyperkalemia: Pharmacotherapies and Clinical Considerations" (2024). School of Medicine Faculty Publications. 2334.
https://digitalscholar.lsuhsc.edu/som_facpubs/2334
10.7759/cureus.52994
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