Can't find Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate at your pharmacy? Here are practical tools and tips to locate Kayexalate or generic SPS in stock near you in 2026.
If your pharmacy just told you Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate is on backorder, take a deep breath. This potassium-lowering medication — sold under brand names like Kayexalate and Kionex — has faced supply issues, especially for the pre-mixed suspension form. But with the right approach, you can find it.
Here are three proven strategies to help you locate Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate in stock near you.
The fastest way to find Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate in stock is to use Medfinder. Instead of calling ten pharmacies, Medfinder shows you which pharmacies near you actually have the medication available — saving you time and frustration.
Here's how it works:
This is especially useful when your usual pharmacy is out of stock and you need to find an alternative quickly. For a step-by-step walkthrough, check out our guide on how to check if a pharmacy has Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate in stock.
When chain pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid run out of a medication, independent pharmacies often still have it. Here's why:
Compounding pharmacies are another option. If neither the suspension nor the powder is available at regular pharmacies, a compounding pharmacy may be able to prepare Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate for you using raw ingredients. Ask your doctor to call in a prescription to a local compounding pharmacy.
You can use Medfinder to find independent pharmacies near you or ask your doctor's office for recommendations.
If you do need to call pharmacies directly, timing matters. Pharmacies are busiest on Monday mornings and right before closing. Try calling:
When you call, be specific. Ask: "Do you have Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate powder, 454 grams, in stock right now?" Specifying the form and quantity helps the pharmacy tech give you an accurate answer.
The pre-mixed suspension is the form most often in shortage. The powder form of Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate is generally more available and costs as little as $6 with a discount coupon. If your prescription is for the suspension, ask your doctor if the powder would work for you. You simply mix it with water at home.
If none of the above strategies work, here are your next steps:
Two newer potassium binders may be available when Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate is not:
Both are more expensive (typically $500-$900 per month without insurance) but may be covered by your insurance. Read more in our guide to alternatives to Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate.
Drug shortages fluctuate. A pharmacy that's out today may have stock tomorrow after a delivery. Set a reminder to check Medfinder every few days, or ask your pharmacy to notify you when it's back in stock.
Some insurance plans will help you locate network pharmacies that have your medication in stock. Call the number on the back of your insurance card and ask for help finding a pharmacy with Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate available.
Finding Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate doesn't have to be a full-time job. Start with Medfinder, consider the powder form, and don't overlook independent pharmacies. If the medication remains unavailable, work with your doctor to explore alternatives.
For the latest on Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate availability, check our 2026 shortage update. And if you're looking to save money, our guide on how to save money on Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate has coupons, discounts, and patient assistance information.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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