Sodium polystyrene sulfonate
Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate
Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (pronunciation: SO-dee-um pol-ee-STYE-reen SUL-fo-nate) is a type of polymer used primarily in medicine as a treatment for hyperkalemia, a condition characterized by high levels of potassium in the blood.
Etymology
The term 'sodium polystyrene sulfonate' is derived from its chemical composition. 'Sodium' refers to the sodium ions present in the compound. 'Polystyrene' is a type of polymer, a large molecule made up of repeating subunits, in this case, styrene. 'Sulfonate' refers to the presence of sulfonate groups in the compound, which are responsible for its ability to bind to potassium ions.
Usage
Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is used in the treatment of hyperkalemia. It works by exchanging sodium ions for potassium ions in the intestine, thereby reducing the overall level of potassium in the body. This medication is typically administered orally or via enema.
Related Terms
- Hyperkalemia: A medical condition characterized by high levels of potassium in the blood.
- Polymer: A large molecule composed of repeating subunits.
- Sodium: A chemical element, represented by the symbol Na, that is essential for animal life.
- Potassium: A chemical element, represented by the symbol K, that is essential for plant life.
Side Effects
Like all medications, sodium polystyrene sulfonate can cause side effects. These may include nausea, vomiting, and constipation. In rare cases, it can cause serious intestinal complications.
See Also
- Cation exchange resin: A type of resin that can exchange its cations with those of a surrounding medium.
- Kayexalate: A brand name for sodium polystyrene sulfonate.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sodium polystyrene sulfonate
- Wikipedia's article - Sodium polystyrene sulfonate
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