CALCIUM POLYSTYRENE SULPHONATE

Calcium polystyrene sulphonate is a potassium binder that was approved for medical use in 1958.

Calcium Polystyrene Sulphonate has been developed to treat hyperkalemia (a condition where there is an excessive amount of potassium in the blood) associated with anuria or severe oliguria.

Calcium polystyrene sulphonate is an oral suspension. The dose and frequency of administration will be decided by your doctor based on your disease condition and other factors. Take medicine as directed by your physician. Take it with or without food. The chances of stomach upset are less if you take this suspension with food. Oral suspension is prescribed when the patient cannot swallow the tablet form of this medicine. The recommended dose is based on the individual’s body weight. It is important to complete the whole course, even if you start to feel better quickly.

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Calcium Polystyrene Sulphonate are constipation, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, weakness, excessive thirst, and frequent urination. Other serious side effects include stomach irritation, bowel obstruction and severe allergic reactions like rash and itching.

Oral administration of this suspension is contraindicated in neonates. This is because neonates have an immature gastrointestinal system and reduced gut motility, which can increase the risk of gastrointestinal complications such as intestinal obstruction and perforation. Magnesium containing laxatives should not be used along with this suspension. Caution is required if you are allergic to this suspension or any of its ingredients, also it should be avoided if you have an intestinal obstruction, thyroid problems, or high blood calcium levels. Get immediate medical attention if you experience itching, vision changes, confusion or dizziness.

Taking too much of this suspension may reduce the potassium levels in your blood below the normal level, and result in symptoms like muscle weakness, feel so irritable and confused. This suspension should be used with caution and only under the supervision of a healthcare professional, as it may worsen these conditions or interact with other medications used to treat them.

Your doctor may recommend regular electrolyte level monitoring during treatment with calcium polystyrene sulphonate. Shake the oral suspension before each use. Take only the quantity prescribed by your doctor; do not increase or decrease the dose without medical guidance. This suspension should not be taken concurrently with other medications or supplements, as serious drug interactions may occur. Avoid foods high in potassium—including bananas, oranges, tomatoes, spinach, nuts, dark chocolates, and salted foods—as these can interact with the medication and elevate hyperkalemia risk. When taking this suspension, maintain an upright sitting position to prevent aspiration during swallowing.

Wang X, Chen D, Song X, Wang J, Zhang H. Efficacy and safety of calcium polystyrene sulfonate in patients with hyperkalemia and stage 3-5 non-dialysis chronic kidney disease: a single-centre randomized controlled trial. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10119845/