sodium polystyrene sulfonate

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (SPS) is a cation-exchanging resin that has been widely used for several decades as a treatment for hyperkalemia. Approved by the FDA in the late 1950s, this therapy functions through an exchange process where cross-linked reactive sulfonate groups exchange bound sodium for potassium in the large bowel as the resin passes through the gastrointestinal tract. It is primarily used to lower elevated serum potassium levels, particularly in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Concerns have been raised regarding its safety, especially when co-administered with sorbitol, due to risks of gastrointestinal adverse events like colonic necrosis. It can also be used to pretreat infant formula or expressed breast milk to reduce potassium content before consumption.

Brand names

Kayexalate

Other names

sodium polystyrene sulfonatecalcium polystyrene sulfonate