sodium polystyrene sulfonate

Pronunciation:	SEW dee um paw lee STEER een SULL foe nate
Brand:	Kayexalate, Kionex

What is the most important information I should know about sodium polystyrene sulfonate?

What is sodium polystyrene sulfonate?

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is an ion-exchange resin. It loses a sodium ion, that is replaced by a potassium ion. This reduces potassium in the blood.

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is used to treat hyperkalemia (high levels of potassium in the blood).

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before taking sodium polystyrene sulfonate?

Before taking sodium polystyrene sulfonate, talk to your doctor if you have

congestive heart failure;
high blood pressure;
swelling;
a low level of calcium or potassium in the blood; or
are on a salt restricted diet or are taking a potassium supplement or a potassium-sparing diuretic such as K-Dur, Klor-Con, and others;

You may not be able to take sodium polystyrene sulfonate or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether sodium polystyrene sulfonate will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take sodium polystyrene sulfonate without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether sodium polystyrene sulfonate will be harmful to an nursing baby. Do not take sodium polystyrene sulfonate without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take sodium polystyrene sulfonate?

Take polystyrene sulfonate exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to explain them to you.

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is usually administered by a healthcare professional.

Take the oral suspension by mouth as directed by your doctor. Shake the suspension well before measuring a dose. To ensure you get the correct dose, use a dose measuring spoon or cup to measure a dose, not a regular table spoon.

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate can also be given as an enema (into the rectum). Follow your doctor's instructions.

Store sodium polystyrene sulfonate at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next regularly scheduled dose as directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

See emergency medical attention if an overdose of sodium polystyrene sulfonate is suspected.

Symptoms of a sodium polystyrene sulfonate overdose are not known.

What should I avoid while taking sodium polystyrene sulfonate?

Do not use salt substitutes or take potassium supplements without first talking to your doctor. Sodium polystyrene sulfonate affects potassium levels in the body.

What are the possible side effects of sodium polystyrene sulfonate?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, seek emergency medical treatment or contact your doctor immediately:

an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
chest pain;
irregular heartbeats or changes in heartbeat;
irritability or depression;
increased thirst or urination;
muscle spasms;
rectal or lower abdominal pain; or
unusual swelling or weakness.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Talk to your doctor if you experience

diarrhea or constipation;
nausea or vomiting; or
decreased appetite.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect sodium polystyrene sulfonate?

Before taking an ACE inhibitor, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following drugs:

a heart medicine, especially digoxin (Lanoxin);
a potassium-sparing diuretic (water pill) such as triamterene (Dyrenium, Maxzide, Dyazide), spironolactone (Aldactone), or amiloride (Midamor);
a potassium supplement such as K-Dur, Klor-Con, and others;
a salt substitute that contains potassium; or
a calcium supplement.

You may not be able to take sodium polystyrene sulfonate, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.

Antacids that contain calcium, aluminum, or magnesium such as Tums, Rolaids, Maalox and others may decrease the effects of sodium polystyrene sulfonate. Do not take an antacid without first talking to your doctor during treatment with sodium polystyrene sulfonate.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with sodium polystyrene sulfonate or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist has additional information about sodium polystyrene sulfonate written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is available with a prescription under the brand names Kayexalate and Kionex. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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