Indicated for: hyperkalemia
Route of administration: oral / rectal
Substance: sodium polystyrene sulfonate (potassium binder)
ATC: V03AE01 (Various | All other therapeutic products | Drugs for treatment of hyperkalemia and hyperphosphatemia)
Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is a medication used to treat hyperkalemia, a condition characterized by elevated potassium levels in the blood. It is prescribed to lower potassium levels, thereby preventing serious complications such as cardiac arrhythmias.
It works through ion exchange: sodium from the medication is released in the intestine, while potassium is bound and excreted in the stool. It is available as a powder or oral suspension and, in some cases, can be administered rectally.
While effective, sodium polystyrene sulfonate may cause side effects such as constipation, nausea, vomiting, or, more rarely, electrolyte imbalances like hyponatremia or hypocalcemia. In rare cases, intestinal ischemia or necrosis may occur, particularly in patients with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions.
Patients should strictly follow their doctor’s instructions and inform their healthcare provider about other medications they are taking, as sodium polystyrene sulfonate can interact with certain treatments, potentially affecting their efficacy.