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ALIMENTARY TRACT AND METABOLISM › MINERAL SUPPLEMENTS › POTASSIUM › Potassium
potassium, combinations
A12BA51
Forms & Strengths
- Extended-release tablets: 8 mEq (600 mg), 10 mEq (750 mg), 20 mEq (1500 mg) potassium chloride
- Oral solution: 10% (20 mEq/15 mL), 20% (40 mEq/15 mL)
- Effervescent tablets: 25 mEq, 50 mEq
Adult Dosing
- Prevention of hypokalemia: 20 mEq orally once daily
- Treatment of hypokalemia: 40 to 100 mEq/day orally in divided doses (max 20-25 mEq per single dose)
- Maximum daily dose: 200 mEq/day in divided doses
Pediatric Dosing
- Hypokalemia treatment/prevention: Safety and efficacy not established in pediatric clinical trials
- Empiric clinical dosing (neonates to adolescents): 1 to 3 mEq/kg/day orally in divided doses, titrated to serum potassium levels
Indications
- Prevention of hypokalemia in patients receiving diuretics
- Treatment of hypokalemia with or without metabolic alkalosis
- Digitalis intoxication management where hypokalemia is present
Mechanism of Action
- Replaces intracellular potassium ions, maintaining the resting membrane potential of nerve and muscle cells
- Regulates osmotic pressure, acid-base balance, and renal function
Contraindications
- Hyperkalemia or conditions predisposing to hyperkalemia (e.g., severe renal impairment, acute dehydration)
- Delayed gastrointestinal transit, structural esophageal compression, or obstructive GI lesions
- Concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics without close monitoring
Adverse Reactions
- Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, flatulence
- Gastrointestinal mucosal ulceration, stenosis, bleeding, or perforation (solid oral forms)
- Hyperkalemia (manifested by paresthesia, muscle weakness, cardiac arrhythmias, ECG changes)
Drug Interactions
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, triamterene): Significant risk of severe hyperkalemia
- ACE inhibitors and ARBs: Decreased aldosterone production leading to potassium retention
- NSAIDs: Potential for severe hyperkalemia and decreased renal function when combined with potassium supplements
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use