What's Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate?
Kayexalate or Kionex are two names for sodium polystyrene sulfurate. It is used to lower blood potassium levels. The medication works by increasing sodium levels in the intestinal, which binds excess potassium to the bloodstream and stops it being absorbed into the body. You can buy it in suspension, powder and granule forms.
Uses for Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate
Hyperkalemia is a condition in which there are abnormally high blood potassium levels. This medication is commonly called sodium polystyrene sulfurate. You can use it to treat some kidney stones, and as an adjunct therapy for certain kinds of cancer.
Research has shown sodium polystyrene-sulfonate can reduce plasma potassium in hyperkalemia patients. It has also been shown to decrease the likelihood of patients with the condition recurring from kidney stones.
Studies suggest that some cancers can be treated with sodium polystyrene. The drug is thought to act by binding to specific compounds within tumor cells, thereby preventing them from reproducing. This is still a mystery and requires more research .
The supposed benefits of Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate
The benefits of sodium polystyrene sulfurate are numerous:
- Reduce the chance of developing recurrent kidney stones.
- Hyperkalemia can reduce the chance of death in people with kidney disease.
- The prevention of tumor cells from absorbing certain compounds, which could slow down their growth.
There is evidence that sodium polystyrene sulfurate might have some of these benefits. However, further research is required to verify its effectiveness.
Side effects of Sodium Polystyrene sulfonate
Although sodium polystyrene sulfurate can be tolerated in large quantities, side effects may occur as follows:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Pain in the abdomen
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Wet mouth
Although rarer, more serious side effects may occur.
- Allergies such as hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat can include rash, hives and difficulty breathing.
- Extreme stomach pain.
- Appetite loss
- Chills and fever.
- There is blood in your urine.
- Confusion.
These side effects can be serious so make sure to contact your doctor right away.
Opinions of experts or professionals regarding Sodium Polystyrene sulfonate
Most experts agree that sodium polystyrene sulfurate can be an effective way to treat hyperkalemia and could also prove beneficial in certain kinds of cancer. They cautioned that further research will be needed to verify its effectiveness in these cases.
Experts recommend sodium polystyrene sulfurate should be taken with caution and under supervision by a physician. It can have serious side effects when used in high doses, or improperly.
How do I get started with Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate
Only take sodium polystyrene sulfurate under supervision. This will ensure that the proper dosage is determined and any side effects are monitored. Adults should take 15-30g per day divided into two or three doses.
Take sodium polystyrene-sulfonate with plenty of fluids. This helps flush out excess potassium. This medication can cause patients to avoid potassium-rich foods like bananas, oranges, and potatoes.
You can buy sodium polystyrene sulfurate in powder or granule form at many pharmacies.
Conclusion
High levels of potassium are treated with sodium polystyrene sulfurate. The medication is usually well tolerated and could also be beneficial in the treatment of certain types of cancer. It is still being researched to prove its effectiveness in this area.
Only take sodium polystyrene sulfurate under supervision from a physician. They will monitor side effects and determine the right dosage. This medication can be taken with fluids. Avoid potassium-rich foods.