Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (By mouth)

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)

Kionex, Kayexalate

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

• 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.
• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
• Shake the bottle of the medicine well just before taking each dose.
• Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about any special diet.
• This medicine can be put into your stomach with a special tube if you cannot swallow the medicine.

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• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.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.