Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate

Kayexalate
Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate

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Generic Equivalents   What's the difference?
Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate
Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate

Source:

Kayexalate (Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate)

Kayexalate (Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate) is a prescription medication primarily used to treat hyperkalemia, a condition characterized by high levels of potassium in the blood. This medicine works by exchanging sodium ions for potassium ions in the intestines, helping to lower the potassium levels in the body.

Why Choose Kayexalate (Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate)?

  • Active Ingredient: Each dose of Kayexalate contains sodium polystyrene sulfonate, a powerful ion-exchange resin.
  • Formulations: Available in both oral suspension and powder forms. The powder can be mixed with water or syrup.
  • Onset of Action: Begins to lower potassium levels within 2 to 4 hours after administration, with the full effect seen in 24 to 48 hours.
  • Flexibility in Administration: Suitable for oral or rectal administration, providing options for patients with swallowing difficulties or nausea.
  • Long-term Efficacy: Ideal for both immediate and prolonged management of elevated potassium levels.

How to Use Kayexalate (Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate)?

  • Oral Administration: For the powder form, dissolve the prescribed amount in a small amount of water or syrup. Stir thoroughly and consume immediately.
  • Rectal Administration: If prescribed as an enema, use as directed by a healthcare professional, ensuring proper technique to maximize efficacy.
  • Dosage: Dosage varies based on individual patient needs and potassium levels. Typical starting doses may range from 15g to 30g once or twice a day.
  • Duration of Treatment: Duration depends on the severity of hyperkalemia and response to the treatment. Regular monitoring of potassium levels is essential.

Important Safety Information about Kayexalate

  • Allergy Information: Avoid if allergic to sodium polystyrene sulfonate or any other ingredients in the product.
  • Contraindications: Not recommended for patients with hypokalemia (low potassium levels), obstructive bowel disease, or post-surgery intestinal anastomosis.
  • Drug Interactions: This may interfere with the absorption of other oral medications. A gap of at least 3 hours should be maintained between Kayexalate and other oral drugs.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a healthcare provider before use if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Fact Table for Kayexalate (Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate)

Generic Name Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate
Brand Name Kayexalate
Drug Type Ion-exchange resin
FDA Approval Approved for medical use
Indications Treatment of hyperkalemia (high blood potassium levels)
Available Forms Oral suspension, Powder for suspension
Administration Route Oral, Rectal
Standard Dosage Varies; typically 15g to 30g once or twice daily
Onset of Action Begins within 2-4 hours, with full effect in 24-48 hours
Contraindications Hypokalemia, obstructive bowel disease, recent bowel surgery
Common Side Effects Nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea
Drug Interactions May affect the absorption of other oral medications
Special Precautions Careful use in patients with heart failure, hypertension.
Storage Instructions Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture
Packaging Available in containers for suspension and powder packets
Pregnancy Category Consult a healthcare provider
Breastfeeding Consideration Consult a healthcare provider
Mechanism of Action Exchanges sodium ions for potassium ions in the intestines

Common Side Effects of Kayexalate

Like all medications, Kayexalate (Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate) can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Understanding these side effects can help you use this medication safely and effectively.

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Sodium retention
  • Anorexia
  • Hypomagnesemia (low magnesium levels)
  • Hypocalcemia (low calcium levels)

If you experience any side effects, discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can offer advice and may adjust your treatment if necessary. Report any severe or unexpected side effects immediately.

How Can You Buy Kayexalate (Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate)?

You can order Kayexalate using these methods on our website:

  1. Order Online
  2. Order by Phone
  3. Order by Fax
  4. Order your refills

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How long does it take for Kayexalate to reduce potassium levels?

    The effectiveness and speed at which Kayexalate reduces potassium levels can vary, but it generally takes several hours to days. Continuous monitoring of potassium levels is essential to determine the medication’s effectiveness.

  2. Who should not take Kayexalate?

    Kayexalate is contraindicated in patients with hypokalemia (low potassium levels), obstructive bowel disease, and those who are allergic to any of the ingredients in the medication.

  3. What are the potential side effects of taking Kayexalate?

    Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. Serious side effects may include electrolyte imbalances, low calcium levels, and signs of intestinal distress such as abdominal pain or bloating.

  4. Are there any special storage instructions for Kayexalate?

    Store Kayexalate at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze the medication.

  5. What are the key considerations for the timing of other medications when taking Kayexalate?

    Kayexalate can bind to other oral medications, potentially reducing their effectiveness. It is recommended to take other medications at least 3 hours before or after Kayexalate. For those with conditions like gastroparesis, a 6-hour interval may be necessary.

  6. What should I avoid mixing with Kayexalate?

    Do not mix Kayexalate with orange juice or any fruit juice containing potassium, as it can interfere with the drug’s effectiveness.

  7. How should Kayexalate be prepared for oral administration?

    For oral administration, mix the prescribed dose of Kayexalate powder with a specified amount of water or flavored syrup, stir well, and consume immediately.

  8. Can Kayexalate be administered rectally?

    Yes, Kayexalate can be administered rectally. The usual adult rectal dose is 30 to 50 grams, given 1 or 2 times daily with intervals of about 6 hours.

  9. What is the usual adult dose for Kayexalate?

    The average adult dose of Kayexalate is 15 grams, taken 1 to 4 times daily depending on the severity of hyperkalemia. It should be mixed with a small amount of water or syrup for consumption.

  10. Is Kayexalate safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

    Consult a healthcare provider before using Kayexalate if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

  11. Can Kayexalate affect the absorption of other medications?

    Yes, it may interfere with the absorption of other oral medications. It’s recommended to maintain a gap of at least 3 hours between taking Kayexalate and other drugs.

  12. What are the common side effects of Kayexalate?

    Side effects may include nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, and electrolyte imbalances such as hypokalemia.

  13. Are there any contraindications for Kayexalate?

    Yes, it is not recommended for patients with low potassium levels, obstructive bowel disease, or those who have had recent bowel surgery.

  14. What are the typical dosages for Kayexalate?

    Dosages can vary, but starting doses may range from 15g to 30g once or twice a day.

  15. How should Kayexalate be administered?

    Kayexalate can be taken orally or rectally, depending on the patient’s condition and doctor’s instructions.

  16. In what forms is Kayexalate available?

    It is available in oral suspension and powder forms.

  17. How does Kayexalate work?

    It works by exchanging sodium ions for potassium ions in the intestines, helping to lower body potassium levels.

  18. What is Kayexalate used for?

    Kayexalate is a prescription medication used to treat hyperkalemia, which is high levels of potassium in the blood.

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Dr. Conor Sheehy, PharmD, BCPS is a practicing clinical pharmacist that works in primary care. He supports other members of the healthcare team including physicians, mid-level providers, nurses, and other clinical staff. He also likes to use his drug knowledge to inform his patients and the public about the benefits and risks they can expect from their medications. His clinical specialties include: anticoagulation, diabetes management, and psychiatric care.
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