CATION EXCHANGE RESINS IN THE TREATMENT OF CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE

Abstract

10 patients with and without edema were given a carboxylated cation exchange resin (Nos. 648 and 741Y of Smith, Kline and French) which bind cations in the small intestine when the pH is greater than 6, thus enhancing fecal Na and K excretion while reducing urinary Na and K excretion. This substance proved effective when given orally for 3-180 days in the management of congestive heart failure and of the ascites and edema of hepatic cirrhosis in some instances. Mercurial diuresis was potentiated by this therapy. Hypokal-emia may result when the NH4 salt alone is given, but this may be remedied by mixing in various proportions of the K salt. No unfavorable symptoms or signs attended the admn. of this material; it must be used with caution when renal function is limited.