Kayexalate (Sodium Polysteryrene Sulfonate) is a prescription medication used to treat a high level of potassium (hyperkalemia) in the blood. Hyperkalemia is a condition with a high potassium level (>5 mmol/L) in the blood and can cause heart rhythm problems. The active ingredient in Kayexalate is Sodium polystyrene sulfonate. Sodium polystyrene sulfonate belongs to the group of medications called potassium binders. It works by removing extra potassium by binding to potassium in the intestine.

Manufacturer Information

We currently offer the brand Kayexalate from Canada and the United Kingdom (Resonium-A) manufactured by Sanofi Aventis in the strength of 454 gm powder. The generic Sodium Polysteryrene Sulfonate, also known as Solystat, comes from Canada and is manufactured by Pendopharm in the strength of 60 ml and 500 ml oral solution and 454 gm powder.

Get medical help immediately if you have any signs of an allergic reaction while taking Kayexalate. The most common side effects of Kayexalate may include:
• Constipation;
• Nausea and vomiting

Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, including:
• Irregular heartbeat;
• Muscle spasm;
• Severe abdominal pain or swelling;
• Severe constipation

Before using sodium polystyrene sulfonate, tell your doctor if you are allergic to it or have any other allergies. Kayexalate comes as oral suspension and powder. Shake the bottle well before using it. Mix the powder with clean water and swallow it, usually 1 to 4 times daily. Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring spoon or use the prescribed number of pre-measured bottles of suspension. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. Do not use potassium supplements without discussing it with your doctor.

Before you start taking this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant;
• Have had episodes of depression or seizures;
• Have intestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal obstruction, and ulcers;
• Have kidney problems;
• Have liver diseases

Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant. During pregnancy, your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of using Kayexalate medication. Sodium Polysteryrene Sulfonate does not pass into breast milk and is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding, and do not give this medication to children. Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Sodium Polysteryrene Sulfonate and other medications, such as meloxicam, sorbitol, and antacids that contain aluminum, calcium, and magnesium.

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