Hypernatremia in a patient treated with sodium polystyrene sulfonate

Severe hyperkalemia requires urgent medical attention and correction in order to prevent arrhythmic complications. Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (SPS) is a cation exchange resin commonly used in the management of hyperkalemia. A recent review raised concerns regarding its effectiveness and potential adverse effects. Hypernatremia in adults in the setting of sodium polystyrene sulfonate therapy has not been described in the literature. We report the case of a woman who developed hypernatremia in the setting of excessive SPS administration and hope to increase awareness among clinicians regarding this potential side effect of SPS therapy.