Q: Which route is preferable for Kayexalate adminstration - oral or rectal?



Answer: Rectal

Cation exchange resins (Kayexalate) can be administered orally or as a rectal retention enema. But as the major site of action is the colon, rectal administration is preferred particularly in hyperkalemic emergencies. Rectal enema is recommended to be retained for an hour. On safety note repeated enemas should be use with caution to prevent colonic perforation. The onset of action occurs within 2 hours.