Hypokalemic PP Medications
The primary goals of treating hypoPP are to alleviate acute attack symptoms, prevent and manage immediate complications, and reduce the risk of both future attacks and late complications. Treatment involves a multi-layered approach, combining medications, dietary adjustments, and trigger management. These strategies have proven highly beneficial for most patients. However, individual responses to treatment vary, making it essential to work closely with your medical provider to develop a personalized plan that best suits your needs.
Potassium Supplementation
Potassium supplementation can be used in patients who have episodes that involve a drop in potassium levels. These supplements come in multiple forms. Different forms of potassium may be easier for people to take due to size and texture. Some people find that a certain manufacturer/brand of potassium is easier to swallow due to the coating on a tablet, size, shape, etc. If this is the case let your pharmacy know so they can order that brand.
Most potassium supplements require a prescription from your doctor. Over the counter formulations contain less potassium and are not as strictly regulated for quality and safe manufacturing practices. Consult with your doctor before adding over the counter medications to your regimen.
Prescription options include:
Tablets– 8MEQ, 10MEQ, 15MEQ, 20MEQ
Capsules-8MEQ, 10MEQ
Effervescent– This is a tablet that is dissolved in liquid and then consumed. It comes in 10MEQ, 20MEQ, and 25MEQ
Liquid– Ready to drink formulation. Comes in 20MEQ/15ML and 40MEQ/15ML
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors
Acetazolamide is a commonly used treatment to reduce episodes of muscle weakness / paralysis in hypokalemic periodic paralysis patients. Acetazolamides effectiveness can vary from patient to patient. To learn more, please click on the buttons below:
Dichlorphenamide is an FDA approved carbonic anhydrase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of primary hyperkalemic periodic paralysis, primary hypokalemic periodic paralysis, and related variants. Dichlorphenamide is available in both brand-name and generic forms.
To learn more about a prescription medication for the treatment of Primary Periodic Paralysis (PPP), patient support, and available tools and resources from Xeris Pharmaceuticals®, click below.
Potassium Sparing Diuretics
These medications were developed to treat other conditions such as high blood pressure, fluid retention, and heart failure. They are diuretics and work by helping the body to eliminate excess fluid while preserving potassium levels. Although not specifically indicated for the treatment of periodic paralysis, these medications can be used as a second-line treatment for Hypo variants when other options, such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, are ineffective.
Amiloride
Eplerenone (Brand name Inspra)
Spironolactone
Triamterene