About sodium polystyrene sulphonate
Potassium-binding ion-exchange resin
Used for
- Treats high blood potassium (hyperkalemia).
Usual adult dose
Often 15 g by mouth one to four times daily; dose is guided by blood potassium and response.
Usual dose in children
Used for children under specialist supervision; dose is based on body weight and blood potassium.
Common side effects
- Constipation, nausea, vomiting, or reduced appetite
- Low potassium, calcium, or magnesium
- Diarrhea or abdominal discomfort
Important warnings
- Can cause severe constipation, bowel blockage, or rarely bowel injury.
- Not for emergency treatment of life-threatening hyperkalemia; it works slowly.
- Avoid in bowel obstruction or severe constipation.
- Separate from other oral medicines by at least three hours; longer may be needed with slow stomach emptying.
Pregnancy
May be used when needed, but evidence is limited; discuss risks with a healthcare professional.
Breastfeeding
Likely low absorption into the body, but breastfeeding evidence is limited.
Interactions
- Sorbitol increases risk of serious bowel injury.
- May reduce absorption of other oral medicines, including lithium and thyroxine.
- Antacids or laxatives containing magnesium or aluminum may reduce its effect.
- May increase risk of low potassium with other potassium-lowering medicines.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.