Resonium-A

What is it?

An ion-exchange resin available as a powder containing 454g of sodium polystyrene sulphonate.

Medical Uses

High blood potassium levels in dialysis patients or those in whom urination is absent or very reduced in production and volume.

Dosage

Adults, usually 15g taken by mouth 3 to 4 times each day or 30g into rectum daily. Consult manufacturer's literature. Children, lg per kg of body weight each day either by mouth or rectal route, then reduce to 0.5g per kg of body weight daily for maintenance. Rectal route should be used for new-born babies.

Special Care

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney damage, high blood pressure, fluid retention, heart failure. Blood levels of electrolytes, potassium and sodium should be monitored.

Avoid Use

Blood plasma potassium levels less than 5mmol per litre, obstruction of bowel, newborn infants with reduced motility of gut.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Laxatives or antacids containing magnesium or aluminium, sorbitol.

Known Side Effects

Gastrointestinal upset, high blood calcium or salt levels, low blood potassium levels, impaction of faeces.