If You Can't Find Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate, You're Not Alone

You've been prescribed Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate — also known by its brand name Kayexalate — to manage high potassium levels. But when you called your pharmacy, they told you it's out of stock. Now what?

If this sounds familiar, you're far from alone. Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate has faced ongoing availability challenges, particularly in its pre-mixed suspension form. In this article, we'll explain exactly why this medication is so hard to find in 2026 and what steps you can take to get your prescription filled.

What Is Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate?

Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate (SPS) is a potassium-binding medication used to treat hyperkalemia — a condition where potassium levels in your blood are dangerously high. High potassium can lead to serious problems, including irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, and in severe cases, cardiac arrest.

SPS works by acting like a sponge in your intestines. It exchanges sodium ions for potassium ions, binding the excess potassium so it passes out of your body through your stool. It's been around since 1958 and is available as a powder you mix into a liquid or as a pre-mixed suspension. It can be taken by mouth or given as a rectal enema.

SPS is commonly prescribed by nephrologists, emergency medicine doctors, and internists, especially for patients with chronic kidney disease who are prone to high potassium levels.

Why Is Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate Hard to Find in 2026?

There are several reasons why you may be having trouble locating Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate at your local pharmacy.

1. Suspension Form Shortages

The pre-mixed oral and rectal suspension form of Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate has been on the ASHP (American Society of Health-System Pharmacists) drug shortage list intermittently for several years. One major supplier, Hikma Pharmaceuticals, stopped marketing the suspension form. When a manufacturer exits the market, the remaining suppliers often can't keep up with demand.

2. Limited Number of Manufacturers

Unlike blockbuster drugs that have dozens of generic manufacturers, Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate has only a handful of companies producing it. The powder form is more widely available from manufacturers like ECI Pharmaceuticals and Amneal, but the ready-to-use suspension has fewer sources. This means any disruption in production can quickly lead to empty pharmacy shelves.

3. Supply Chain Disruptions

Like many medications, Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate has been affected by broader pharmaceutical supply chain issues. Raw material availability, manufacturing delays, and distribution challenges have all contributed to spotty availability across the country.

4. It's Not a High-Profit Drug

Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate is an older, generic medication. The cash price for the powder can be as low as $6 to $20 with a coupon. While this is great for patients' wallets, it means there's less financial incentive for manufacturers to invest in production capacity, especially when margins are thin.

What You Can Do If You Can't Find Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate

Don't panic. There are several practical steps you can take right now.

Use Medfinder to Check Real-Time Availability

Medfinder lets you search for pharmacies near you that have Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate in stock. Instead of calling pharmacy after pharmacy, you can check availability online in seconds. It's free and updated regularly.

Ask About the Powder Form

If the pre-mixed suspension is unavailable, ask your pharmacist or doctor about switching to the powder form. The powder version of Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate is more widely available and can be mixed with water at home. It works the same way — you just need to prepare it yourself.

Try Independent or Compounding Pharmacies

Large chain pharmacies often run out first because they serve the most customers. Smaller, independent pharmacies may have stock that the big chains don't. Compounding pharmacies can sometimes prepare the suspension for you if they have the raw ingredients.

Talk to Your Doctor About Alternatives

If you simply cannot find Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate, your doctor may prescribe an alternative potassium binder such as Patiromer (Veltassa) or Sodium Zirconium Cyclosilicate (Lokelma). These newer medications work similarly but may cost more. Read our full guide on alternatives to Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate.

Final Thoughts

Finding Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate shouldn't be this hard, but supply challenges with the suspension form and a limited number of manufacturers have made it a reality for many patients in 2026. The good news is that the powder form is generally more available, and tools like Medfinder can help you locate a pharmacy that has it in stock right now.

If you're struggling with high potassium and can't get your medication, don't wait — talk to your doctor about alternatives and check the latest shortage updates to stay informed.