Generic

Potassium Chloride

Indications

Replacement of potassium deficiency is advised using potassium chloride.

• Hypokalemia caused by diuretics (potassium loss)
• Hypokalemia as a result of potassium deficiency in the kidneys
• Deficiency in potassium due to gastrointestinal losses
• Hypochloraemic alkalosis in the presence of hypokalaemia

Pharmacology

Potassium chloride is a drug that is used to treat hypokalemia and potassium shortage. In most bodily tissues, the potassium ion is the most abundant intracellular cation. It plays a role in a variety of physiological activities, including maintaining intracellular tonicity, transmitting nerve impulses, contracting cardiac, skeletal, and smooth muscle, and maintaining adequate renal function.

Dosage & Administration

Oral dose: It should be taken with or after meals with plenty of fluid (water/fruit juice). Typical doses for the prevention of hypokalaemia may be upto 50 mmol (about 37.5 mL) daily by mouth. Oral treatment may be suitable in some cases of hypokalaemia and similar doses to those used for prevention may be adequate in mild potassium deficiency. However, higher doses may be needed in more severe deficiency.

Parenteral dose: Intravenous administration may be required in acute hypokalaemia. One ampoule (10 mL) i.e. 1.5 gm (20 mmol k+) may be added to 500 mL of sodium chloride or glucose intravenous infusion and given slowly over 2 to 3 hours with specialist advice and ECG monitoring in difficult cases. Repeated measurements of potassium are necessary to determine whether further infusions are required and to avoid the development of hyperkalaemia. This is especially liable to occur in renal impairment.

Interaction

Treatment with the following medications increases the risk of hyperkalemia: Potassium-sparing diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, cyclosporin, NSAIDs, beta-blockers, heparin, digoxin.

Contraindications

Hyperkalaemic periodic paralysis, congenital paramyotonia, marked renal failure (even when not yet associated with manifest hyperkalaemia), untreated Addison’s disease, hyporeninaemic hypoaldosteronism, acute dehydration, hyperkalaemia, and conditions involving extensive cell destruction are examples of hypersensitivity to potassium administration (e.g. severe burns). Hypokalemia should not be treated with potassium chloride in the case of metabolic acidosis.

Side Effects

Hyperkalemia is caused by too much potassium in the body, and symptoms include paraesthesia in the extremities, muscle weakness, paralysis, hypotension, cardiac arrhythmias, heart block, and cardiac arrest. During I.V. administration of solutions containing 30 mmol or more potassium per litre, pain or phlebitis may develop. Oral dosage may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal cramps.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Medicines should not be taken during the first three months of pregnancy as a general rule, and the dangers and benefits of using drugs should be carefully addressed throughout pregnancy. Breastfeeding is not contraindicated while using potassium salts.

Precautions & Warnings

Those with renal or adrenocortical insufficiency, heart disease, acute dehydration, heat cramps, substantial tissue destruction as occurs with severe burns, or patients using potassium-sparing diuretics should use it with caution. Excessive use of potassium-containing salt replacements, as well as concomitant use of potassium supplements, can result in potassium buildup, especially in patients with renal failure. Other medications that contain potassium or have the potential to cause hyperkalemia should be avoided whenever possible. If you have extreme nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain, you should stop taking the medication.

Therapeutic Class

Electrolyte supplements, oral electrolyte supplements.

Storage Conditions

Store at or below 25°C in a dry, dark area. Keep out of children’s reach.

Pharmaceutical Name

ACME Laboratories Ltd.