GENERIC NAME: SODIUM POLYSTYRENE SULFONATE - POWDER (SO-dee-um pah-lee-STYE-reen SULL-fon-ate)
BRAND NAME(S): Kayexalate, Kionex, Marlexate
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
USES: This medication is used to treat high levels of potassium in the body (hyperkalemia).
HOW TO USE: To prepare the oral liquid suspension, follow the directions provided by your doctor or pharmacist. Measure out the correct dose of the powder and mix with the correctly measured amount of water or syrup exactly as directed. In some cases, sorbitol liquid may be prescribed to mix with the medication powder instead of water or syrup. Sorbitol acts as a laxative to relieve constipation. The oral suspension should be used soon after mixing. Do not store for more than 24 hours. This medication may also be given rectally as an enema. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific directions on how to prepare the medication and use the enema (including the use of cleansing enemas before and after the actual medication enema). Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Do not heat the medication; heat may cause the medication to be less effective. Do not use salt substitutes without consulting your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, constipation or diarrhea may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Unlikely but report promptly: swelling, muscle cramps, dizziness, mental or mood changes. Very unlikely but report promptly: fast/slow/irregular pulse, muscle weakness, muscle spasm. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies, heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, swelling (edema). This medication contains significant amounts of salt (sodium). If you are on a salt-restricted diet, or have any of the medical conditions noted above, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Electrolytes - Read about blood electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicorbonate) and the effects of electrolyte imbalances like kidney failure, low blood pressure, hypokalemia, and hyperkalemia.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Interactive Slideshows