Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

SODIUM POLYSTYRENE SULFONATE - POWDER

(SO-dee-um pah-lee-STYE-reen SULL-fon-ate)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Kayexalate, Kionex, Marlexate

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.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication you use, especially of: calcium or aluminum or magnesium-containing antacids or laxatives, certain "water pills" (potassium sparing diuretics such as amiloride), digoxin. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store the powder at room temperature at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Brief storage between 59 - 86 degrees F (15 - 30 degrees C) is permitted. After mixing, use the oral liquid suspension within 24 hours. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).