Does Aluminum Hydroxide Interact with Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate?
Aluminum Hydroxide and Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate have a major drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Intestinal obstruction due to concretions has been reported when used in combination with sodium polystyrene sulfonate. The mechanism involves formation of intestinal concretions. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Major
- Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate Class
- Potassium Binder
- Management
- Close medical supervision required
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Aluminum Hydroxide and Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate occurs because formation of intestinal concretions. Clinically, this means intestinal obstruction due to concretions has been reported when used in combination with sodium polystyrene sulfonate. This is classified as a major interaction, meaning it could cause serious harm if not properly managed. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust dosages, substitute one medication, or increase monitoring frequency.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Aluminum Hydroxide and your doctor is considering prescribing Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask how frequently you should be monitored while these are co-prescribed
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider