Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (patient information)

Why is this medication prescribed
Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is used to treat high blood potassium.

How should this medicine be used
Sodium polystyrene sulfonate comes as a powder and suspension to take by mouth. It may also be used as a rectal enema. It is usually taken one to four times a day. The powder should be mixed with water or syrup as directed by your doctor. Shake the liquid (suspension) well before each use. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take sodium polystyrene sulfonate exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate controls high blood potassium but does not cure it. Continue to take sodium polystyrene sulfonate even if you feel well. Do not stop taking sodium polystyrene sulfonate without talking to your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow
Before taking sodium polystyrene sulfonate:


 * tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to sodium polystyrene sulfonate or any other drugs.
 * tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially antacids, digoxin, diuretics (water pills), laxatives, and vitamins or herbal products.
 * tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart or kidney disease, hypertension, or constipation.
 * tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking sodium polystyrene sulfonate, call your doctor.
 * tell your doctor if you are on a sodium-restricted diet.

What special dietary instructions should I follow
Talk to your doctor before using salt substitutes containing potassium.If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directions carefully.

What should I do if I forget a dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Mild side effects
''Sodium polystyrene sulfonate may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:''


 * constipation
 * diarrhea
 * upset stomach
 * nausea
 * vomiting

Severe side effects
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:


 * confusion
 * muscle weakness
 * unusual swelling
 * irregular heartbeat
 * rectal or lower stomach pain
 * increased thirst

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature (unless told otherwise by your pharmacist) and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.If you prepare sodium polystyrene sulfonate from a powder, refrigerate the mixed suspension. Do not use a suspension more than 24 hours after you have prepared it.

What other information should I know
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Brand names

 * Kayexalate®
 * Kionex®
 * SPS®

Other names

 * SPS