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Home > Drug Category > Hyperkalemia > Kayexalate and Equivalent

Kayexalate Information

Kayexalate (Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate) is used to treat hyperkalemia. In this condition, there's an unusually high level of potassium in the blood. This potassium imbalance can be problematic because potassium is crucial for nerve and muscle cell function, including the heart, and too much of it can lead to dangerous and even life-threatening heart rhythm abnormalities. The active ingredient in Kayexalate is sodium polystyrene sulfonate, which belongs to a class of drugs called cation-exchange resins. It works by acting as a chemical sponge in the digestive tract. When taken orally or rectally, the sodium polystyrene sulfonate travels through the gut, where it binds to excess potassium ions. In a crucial swap, it releases its own sodium ions in exchange. This ion-exchange process effectively captures the excess potassium, preventing it from being absorbed into the bloodstream. The Kayexalate-potassium complex is then safely eliminated from the body in the stool, which helps to lower the overall potassium levels in the blood. Although effective, this process is relatively slow. As a result, it is usually used for non-emergency management, often in patients with chronic kidney disease, heart failure, or those on drugs that elevate potassium levels. This way, Kayexalate helps keep potassium within a safe range and protects vital organs.

Kayexalate Side Effects

Some mild side effects of this medicine include diarrhea, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. Contact your doctor if these common side effects persist or worsen. Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Bowel perforation with symptoms like severe abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, and nausea;
• Constipation with abdominal bloating, swelling, or other signs of bowel obstruction;
• Fecal impaction with symptoms like leaking liquid stool, feeling the need to push hard stool;
• Gastrointestinal irritation and bleeding with symptoms like vomiting of coffee grounds, or passage of dark or bloody stools;
• High level of sodium with symptoms like excessive thirst, bloating;
• Low calcium levels with symptoms like irritability and muscle spasms;
• Low potassium levels with symptoms like muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Kayexalate Precautions

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to sodium polystyrene sulfonate, the inactive ingredients in Kayexalate, or any other medicine. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Dehydration;
• Gastrointestinal problems, including ulcers and obstruction;
• Heart disease;
• High blood pressure;
• Kidney disease;
• Other electrolyte imbalances, including low potassium, calcium, or high sodium;
• Severe burns

It's best to talk to your doctor before taking this medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Kayexalate may interact with other medicines like antacids, digoxin, laxatives, thyroxine, sorbitol, and immunosuppressant drugs. Tell your doctor about all the medications, including herbal supplements, you are taking before using Kayexalate to minimize the risk of interactions.

This medicine is available in the form of oral suspensions for oral use and also in the form of powder for oral and rectal use. Check out the leaflet in the medication pack for details on how to prepare this medicine for oral use and rectal enema. When taking it orally, it's a good idea to stay upright while taking it and avoid inhaling the powder. Do not give this medicine by mouth to newborn babies. It should only be given rectally to newborns. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage schedule for you depending on your condition. Do not take other oral medications within three hours of taking this medication orally to ensure proper absorption. Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from freezing, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Kayexalate?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Kayexalate.