Kalexate Disease Interactions

The use of sodium polystyrene sulfonate is contraindicated in patients with hypokalemia. Serious potassium deficiency can occur from therapy with sodium polystyrene sulfonate. Sodium polystyrene sulfonate exchanges sodium ions for potassium ions in the intestine or colon. Monitoring serum potassium levels carefully and evaluating the patient's clinical condition and electrocardiogram may be necessary.

The use of sodium polystyrene sulfonate is contraindicated in patients with obstructive bowel disease. Cases of intestinal necrosis, which may be fatal, and other serious gastrointestinal adverse events (bleeding, ischemic colitis, perforation) have been reported in association with sodium polystyrene sulfonate use. Therapy with this agent should be avoided in patients who have not had a bowel movement post-surgery, and patients who are at risk of developing constipation or impaction. Therapy with sodium polystyrene sulfonate should be discontinued in patients who develop constipation during treatment.

The use of sodium polystyrene sulfonate is associated with an elevation in sodium. Therapy with sodium polystyrene sulfonate should be administered cautiously in patients with conditions that might be exacerbated by additional sodium such as severe congestive heart failure, severe hypertension, or marked edema. Compensatory restriction of sodium intake from other sources may be indicated.