About sodium polystyrene sulfonate
Potassium-binding cation-exchange resin
Used for
- Treats high blood potassium levels (hyperkalemia).
Usual adult dose
Oral: commonly 15 g one to four times daily. Rectal: commonly 30–50 g as an enema; dosing varies by response and local guidance.
Usual dose in children
Oral: commonly 1 g/kg per dose, one to four times daily. Rectal dosing is specialist-directed.
Common side effects
- Constipation, nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
- Low potassium, calcium, or magnesium
- Fluid or sodium retention
- Rarely, serious bowel injury or blockage
Important warnings
- Not for emergency treatment of life-threatening hyperkalemia; it acts slowly.
- Avoid with bowel obstruction, severe constipation, or significant bowel disease.
- Separate other oral medicines by at least three hours; longer may be needed for delayed stomach emptying.
- Monitor blood electrolytes and bowel function during treatment.
Pregnancy
Use only when clearly needed; evidence is limited, and treatment requires medical supervision.
Breastfeeding
Not absorbed significantly from the gut; use under medical supervision.
Interactions
- Sorbitol can increase the risk of serious bowel injury; avoid combining them.
- May reduce absorption of other oral medicines; separate doses.
- May reduce lithium or thyroxine absorption.
- May increase sodium load, especially with antacids or laxatives containing sodium.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.