Question about potassium binders

[wheezoids21]

Good morning. I had been taking Kayaxelate for a few years when my dr prescribed Valtassa, a safer, newer alternative for lowering potassium levels. Well, it turned out that the prescription was an 800 dollar whammy as it is not available in generic form. So off I went back onto Kayaxelate. I was wondering if anyone here has experienced any ill effects from taking it long term? I really dont see the point in distributing drugs which nobody can afford. Last week I asked my pharmacist if the price may have gone down in the 3 years since. Its gone up to 1200. Unreal.

[Bassetmommer NKF Ambassador]

You should contact the company that make Valtassa and see if they have a patient assistance program. I did when I was on it before and it cost me $5.00.

If you do not have insurance or do not have enough insurance coverage and meet financial criteria, you may qualify for free VELTASSA. Call 1-844-870-7597. If you are a patient currently taking VELTASSA and would like more information about VELTASSA, please call 1-844-870-7597.

[orangecity41 NKF Ambassador in reply to Bassetmommer]

Thanks for sharing good information. One never knows when may need it.

[Bassetmommer NKF Ambassador in reply to orangecity41]

Thanks. have a good Thanksgiving.

[orangecity41 NKF Ambassador in reply to Bassetmommer]

You too.

[wheezoids21 in reply to Bassetmommer]

Hi...yeah, apparently as I am Bermudian I cant participate in that deal. This is often the case with most things we need to import.....

[Bassetmommer NKF Ambassador in reply to wheezoids21]

sorry

[wheezoids21 in reply to Bassetmommer]

But thank you anyway.....i really appreciate any and all input. X

[wheezoids21]

S'ok...the many downsides of living in paradise lol

[Frankie24]

That is unbelievable !! I get my binder’s through my dialysis center. I am on Medicare and pay nothing for the prescription. I agree the pharmaceutical industry is out of control and should be regulated. Would one of the programs I see advertised like good RX bring down the cost. I take a different binder so cannot answer about side effects.

[wheezoids21 in reply to Frankie24]

Hi Frankie, thank you for your reply. I have pretty good private insurance through my job. Our goverment funded insurance is quite limited, but they are in the process of overhauling it and that could take years. As long as i can get generic prescriptions there's no co-pay. Unfortunately Valtassa doesnt come in a generic form. I will look into your suggestion but Im doubtful that it will work without a U.S. address and card. You never know though!

[Frankie24 in reply to wheezoids21]

Best of luck. I also like the suggestion of contacting the company directly. I hope you find a more affordable solution to your dilemma.

[KidneyCoach NKF Ambassador in reply to Frankie24]

You may be confusing phosphorus binders with potassium binders. Two very different products. Most nephrologists won't prescribe kayexalate long term. Generally prescribed as an emergency intervention. Valtessa is normally prescribed as a daily med for those who have difficulty in maintaining a healthy potassium level. Blessings

[wheezoids21 in reply to KidneyCoach]

Hi, no i am definitely taking Kayakelate, and have been for about 3 years @ 3x per week. The Valtassa was too expensive for me to afford.

[RhenDutchess123]

Not sure about Potassium Binder...but Good Rx helps with Phosphorus Binder Sevelamer...$230.00 monthly down to $35.00..

[wheezoids21 in reply to RhenDutchess123]

Good Rx has a lowest price of 994 dollars and not available outside of u.s. Still a nope, but thank you.