What type of medication is Kayexalate?

Kayexalate is a type of medication known as a potassium binder. It is primarily used to treat hyperkalemia, a condition characterized by elevated levels of potassium in the blood. Kayexalate works by exchanging sodium ions for potassium ions in the intestines, thereby helping to lower potassium levels in the body. This mechanism is crucial for patients who may be at risk for serious cardiac complications due to high potassium levels.

In contrast, calcium binders are medications used to manage calcium levels, often in patients with conditions like hyperparathyroidism, while phosphate binders are aimed at controlling elevated phosphates, particularly in those with chronic kidney disease. Diuretics, on the other hand, are medications that promote the excretion of water and electrolytes through the urine and are used to manage conditions like hypertension and edema, but they do not directly bind potassium in the gut. Therefore, recognizing Kayexalate as a potassium binder is essential for understanding its therapeutic role in managing hyperkalemia.