Does Sorbitol Interact with Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate?
Sorbitol and Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate have a contraindicated drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Concomitant use with sodium polystyrene sulfonate has been implicated in cases of intestinal necrosis, which may be fatal. The mechanism involves unknown. 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
- Contraindicated
- Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate Class
- Potassium Binder
- Management
- Do not take together
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Sorbitol and Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate occurs because unknown. Clinically, this means concomitant use with sodium polystyrene sulfonate has been implicated in cases of intestinal necrosis, which may be fatal. Because of the severity of this interaction, these medications are contraindicated — meaning they should not be taken together under any circumstances. If you are currently taking both, contact your healthcare provider immediately to discuss alternatives.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Sorbitol 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 about alternative medications that do not interact with your current regimen
- Ask how frequently you should be monitored while these are co-prescribed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider