Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Rectal)

Introduction

Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate (SOE-dee-um pol-ee-STYE-reen SUL-foe-nate)

Treats hyperkalemia (high levels of potassium in the blood).

Brand Name(s)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to sodium polystyrene sulfonate, or if you have a low level of potassium in your blood.

How to Use This Medicine

Liquid, Enema

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• This medicine comes with patient instructions. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Shake the enema bottle well just before each use.
• Lie on your left side with your left leg straight or slightly bent, and your right knee bent upward. Insert the tip of the enema bottle into your rectum about 1 inch. Gently squeeze the bottom of the bottle to release the enema.
• Remove the enema bottle and throw it away.
• You may need to hold the liquid from the enema in your rectum for several hours. This may be difficult or feel uncomfortable. It should become easier to do as you continue to use this medicine.
• To help you keep the liquid in your rectum, you may put a pillow under your hips while you are lying down. Another idea is to lie on your back and pull your knees up to your chest.
• Your rectum will have to be rinsed after the treatments. Rinsing your rectum will clean out any medicine that may still be inside.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not heat this medicine unless your doctor tells you to.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using antacids or laxatives, such as aluminum carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, milk of magnesia, Basalgel®, Gaviscon®, Maalox®, or Rolaids®. Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking heart medicines, such as digoxin (Digitek®, Lanoxin®) or digitoxin.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have heart rhythm problems.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, or severe swelling or bloating. Make sure your doctor knows if you are on a special low-salt (low-sodium) diet.
• Ask your doctor what to do if you have constipation.
• Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Dry mouth, increased thirst, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting.
• Fast or uneven heartbeat.
• Severe constipation or stomach pain.
• Trouble thinking clearly, or feeling confused or grouchy.
• Unusual weakness.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Nausea, constipation, or diarrhea.
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.
• Upset stomach, loss of appetite, or vomiting.