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VARIOUS › ALL OTHER THERAPEUTIC PRODUCTS › ALL OTHER THERAPEUTIC PRODUCTS › Drugs for treatment of hyperkalemia and hyperphosphatemia
polystyrene sulfonate
V03AE01
Forms & Strengths
- Powder for oral suspension 15% (w/v)
- Powder for oral suspension 30% (w/v)
- Rectal enema 15% (w/v)
- Oral granules 15% (w/v)
Adult Dosing
- 15‑30 g PO every 6‑12 h (max 60 g/day) for mild‑moderate hyperkalaemia
- 60 g PO or rectally as single dose for severe hyperkalaemia, repeat if needed
- Administer with water; avoid sorbitol-containing vehicles
Pediatric Dosing
- 0.5‑1 g/kg/day PO divided q6‑12 h, max 30 g/day
- Use lower end for infants; monitor serum K⁺ closely
- Rectal use limited to older children >2 yr
Indications
- Acute or chronic hyperkalaemia when rapid removal not required
- Adjunct in chronic kidney disease or dialysis patients with elevated K⁺
Mechanism of Action
- Cation‑exchange resin swaps Na⁺ (or Ca²⁺) for K⁺ in colon
- Binds luminal K⁺, preventing absorption and promoting fecal excretion
Contraindications
- Intestinal obstruction, perforation, severe constipation
- Recent GI surgery or ischemia
- Hypokalaemia (K⁺ <3.5 mmol/L)
- Use of sorbitol‑based suspension in patients at risk of necrosis
Adverse Reactions
- Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Electrolyte shifts: hypernatremia, hypocalcaemia
- Rare colonic necrosis or ulceration, especially with sorbitol
Drug Interactions
- May reduce absorption of oral drugs (e.g., digoxin, quinidine, penicillins, levothyroxine)
- Separate administration by at least 3 h from other oral meds
- Concurrent use with potassium‑sparing agents may blunt effect
- Avoid concomitant sorbitol preparations due to necrosis risk
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use