Questions BN

Question 1

A patient is admitted to the medical admissions following urgent referral by their gP, as they have symptoms that suggest abnormal potassium levels. The patient’s blood potassium level is taken and it is 6.2mmol/l (3.5-5.3)
Which of the following medicines would be most appropriate to administer to the patient?
- Calcium acetate
- Magnesium aspartate
- Patiromer calcium
- Potassium chloride
- Sevelamer

Answer 1

Patiromer calcium is used to manage hyperkalaemia. It is a non-absorbed cation-
exchange polymer that acts as a potassium binder in the gastro-intestinal tract. The
dose is initially 8.4 g once daily; adjusted in steps of 8.4 g as required. Dose
adjustments should be made at intervals of at least one week; maximum 25.2 g per
day.
Magnesium aspartate is used for hypomagnesaemia. Potassium chloride used for
hypokalaemia. Sevelamer and calcium acetate are used for hypophosphatemia.