Dosing & Uses
Dosage Forms & Strengths
tablet
- 20mEq
tablet, extended-release
- 8mEq
- 10mEq
- 15mEq
- 20mEq
solution, oral
- 20mEq/15mL
- 40mEq/15mL
packet, oral
- 20mEq
capsules, extended-release
- 8mEq
- 10mEq
premix IV in plastic container
- 10mEq
- 20mEq
- 30mEq
- 40mEq
Hypokalemia
Mild to moderate
- Capsules or tablets: 40-100 mEq PO qDay in divided doses; single dose not to exceed 25 mEq to minimize GI discomfort
- Oral solution: 40-100 mEq PO qDay in 2 to 5 divided doses; limit single doses to 40 mEq/dose; not to exceed 200 mEq/24hr
- Aternatively, 10-20 mEq PO BID/QID (20-80 mEq/day)
Severe hypokalemia
- 40 mEq PO TID/QID; may also administer 20 mEq PO BID/TID in addition to IV potassium administration with careful monitoring; doses >40 mEq are typically not well tolerated orally, resulting in GI irritation and nausea
Hypokalemia Prophylaxis
20-40 mEq PO qDay or divided BID
Dosing considerations
- Dosing varies; adjust to serum potassium levels
IV intermittent infusions
≤10 mEq/hr; repeat as needed based on lab values done frequently; central line infusion and continuous ECG monitoring recommended for infusions >10 mEq/hr
10 mEq of potassium chloride increases serum potassium levels by approximately 0.1 mEq/.L
Dosing based on serum potassium
- 2.5-3.5 mEq/L: 10 mEq/hr maximum infusion rate; 40 mEq/L mazimum concentration; not to exceed 200 mEq dose/24hr
- <2.5 mEq/L or symptomatic hypokalemia (excluding emergency treatment of cardiac arrest): 40 mEq/hr maximum infusion rate (central line only) in presence of continuous ECG monitoring and frequent lab monitoring; patients may require up to 400 mEq/24hr
Dosing Modifications
Hepatic impairment
- Patients with cirrhosis should usually be started at low end of dosing range, and serum potassium level should be monitored frequently
Renal impairment
- Patients with impaired renal function, particularly if patient is on RAAS inhibitors or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, should usually be started at low end of dosing range because of potential for development of hyperkalemia; serum potassium level should be monitored frequently; renal function should be assessed periodically
Dosage Forms & Strengths
tablet
- 20mEq
tablet, extended-release
- 8mEq
- 10mEq
- 15mEq
- 20mEq
solution, oral
- 20mEq/15mL
- 40mEq/15mL
packet, oral
- 20mEq
capsules, extended-release
- 8mEq
- 10mEq
premixed IV in plastic container
- 10mEq
- 20mEq
- 30mEq
- 40mEq
Hypokalemia prophylaxis
For ongoing drug losses, including diuretic
>1 month: 1-2 mEq/kg qDay of BID; single dose not to exceed usual adult single dose of 20 mEq/dose, although some patients may require a single dose up to 40 mEq/dose or higher based on lab values and ongoing losses
Hypokalemia
Mild to moderate
- >1 month: 2-5 mEq/kg PO in divided doses; not to exceed 1-2 mEq/kg as single dose or 20 mEq/kg, whichever is less; consider IV administration if deficit severe or ongoing losses great
Severe
- 0.5-1 mEq/kg/dose; not to exceed 40 mEq/dose; infuse at 0.5 mEq/kg/hr; evaluate serum concentrations 1-2 hr after completion of infusion; repeat as necessary based on lab values; severe depletion or ongoing losses may require >200% of normal daily maintenance
Interactions
Interaction Checker
No Results
Contraindicated
Serious - Use Alternative
Significant - Monitor Closely
Minor
Contraindicated (0)
Serious - Use Alternative (10)
- amiloride
amiloride and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- baloxavir marboxil
potassium chloride will decrease the level or effect of baloxavir marboxil by cation binding in GI tract. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Baloxavir may bind to polyvalent cations resulting in decreased absorption. Studies in monkeys showed concurrent use with calcium, aluminum, or iron caused significantly decreased plasma levels. Human studies not conducted.
- drospirenone
drospirenone and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- eplerenone
potassium chloride, eplerenone. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Contraindicated. Hyperkalemia.
- oxybutynin
potassium chloride, oxybutynin. Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Patients using drugs with extensive anticholinergic effects should avoid concomitant use with solid oral dosage forms of potassium chloride. May use effervescent potassium preparations as alternatives. .
- potassium acid phosphate
potassium acid phosphate and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- potassium citrate
potassium chloride and potassium citrate both increase serum potassium. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- potassium phosphates, IV
potassium chloride and potassium phosphates, IV both increase serum potassium. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- spironolactone
spironolactone and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- triamterene
triamterene and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
Monitor Closely (109)
- acebutolol
acebutolol and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- aceclofenac
aceclofenac and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- acemetacin
acemetacin and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- albuterol
potassium chloride increases and albuterol decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- arformoterol
potassium chloride increases and arformoterol decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- aspirin
aspirin and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- aspirin rectal
aspirin rectal and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- aspirin/citric acid/sodium bicarbonate
aspirin/citric acid/sodium bicarbonate and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- atenolol
atenolol and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- benazepril
benazepril increases levels of potassium chloride by decreasing elimination. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hyperkalemia.
potassium chloride and benazepril both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor. - bendroflumethiazide
potassium chloride increases and bendroflumethiazide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- betaxolol
betaxolol and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- bisoprolol
bisoprolol and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- bumetanide
potassium chloride increases and bumetanide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- canagliflozin
potassium chloride and canagliflozin both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- candesartan
candesartan and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- captopril
captopril increases levels of potassium chloride by decreasing elimination. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hyperkalemia.
potassium chloride increases toxicity of captopril by Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Both drugs increase potassium. Monitor potassium. - carbenoxolone
potassium chloride increases and carbenoxolone decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- carvedilol
carvedilol and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- celecoxib
celecoxib and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- celiprolol
celiprolol and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- chlorothiazide
potassium chloride increases and chlorothiazide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- chlorthalidone
potassium chloride increases and chlorthalidone decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- choline magnesium trisalicylate
choline magnesium trisalicylate and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- cyclopenthiazide
potassium chloride increases and cyclopenthiazide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- diclofenac
diclofenac and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- diflunisal
diflunisal and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- digoxin
potassium chloride and digoxin both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- disopyramide
potassium chloride increases effects of disopyramide by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Additive cardiovascular depression.
- dobutamine
potassium chloride increases and dobutamine decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- dopexamine
potassium chloride increases and dopexamine decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- enalapril
enalapril increases levels of potassium chloride by decreasing elimination. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hyperkalemia.
- ephedrine
potassium chloride increases and ephedrine decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- epinephrine
potassium chloride increases and epinephrine decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- epinephrine racemic
potassium chloride increases and epinephrine racemic decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- eprosartan
eprosartan and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- esmolol
esmolol and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- ethacrynic acid
potassium chloride increases and ethacrynic acid decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- etodolac
etodolac and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- fenoprofen
fenoprofen and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- finerenone
potassium chloride and finerenone both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Finerenone dose adjustment based on current serum potassium concentration. Monitor serum potassium and adjust finerenone dose as described in the prescribing information as necessary.
- flurbiprofen
flurbiprofen and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- formoterol
potassium chloride increases and formoterol decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- fosinopril
fosinopril increases levels of potassium chloride by decreasing elimination. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hyperkalemia.
- furosemide
potassium chloride increases and furosemide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- gentamicin
potassium chloride increases and gentamicin decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- hydrochlorothiazide
potassium chloride increases and hydrochlorothiazide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- ibuprofen
ibuprofen and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- ibuprofen IV
ibuprofen IV and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- imidapril
imidapril increases levels of potassium chloride by decreasing elimination. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hyperkalemia.
- indapamide
potassium chloride increases and indapamide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- indomethacin
indomethacin and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- irbesartan
irbesartan and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- isoproterenol
potassium chloride increases and isoproterenol decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- ketoprofen
ketoprofen and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- ketorolac
ketorolac and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- ketorolac intranasal
ketorolac intranasal and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- labetalol
labetalol and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- levalbuterol
potassium chloride increases and levalbuterol decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- lisinopril
lisinopril increases levels of potassium chloride by decreasing elimination. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hyperkalemia.
- lornoxicam
lornoxicam and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- losartan
losartan and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- meclofenamate
meclofenamate and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- mefenamic acid
mefenamic acid and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- meloxicam
meloxicam and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- metaproterenol
potassium chloride increases and metaproterenol decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- methyclothiazide
potassium chloride increases and methyclothiazide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. .
- metolazone
potassium chloride increases and metolazone decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- metoprolol
metoprolol and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- moexipril
moexipril increases levels of potassium chloride by decreasing elimination. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hyperkalemia.
- nabumetone
nabumetone and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- nadolol
nadolol and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- naproxen
naproxen and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- nebivolol
nebivolol and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- noni juice
potassium chloride and noni juice both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- norepinephrine
potassium chloride increases and norepinephrine decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- olmesartan
olmesartan and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- oxaprozin
oxaprozin and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- parecoxib
parecoxib and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- penbutolol
penbutolol and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- perindopril
perindopril increases levels of potassium chloride by decreasing elimination. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hyperkalemia.
- pindolol
pindolol and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- pirbuterol
potassium chloride increases and pirbuterol decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- piroxicam
piroxicam and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- potassium citrate/citric acid
potassium chloride and potassium citrate/citric acid both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- propranolol
propranolol and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- quinapril
quinapril increases levels of potassium chloride by decreasing elimination. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hyperkalemia.
- ramipril
ramipril increases levels of potassium chloride by decreasing elimination. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hyperkalemia.
- rilpivirine
potassium chloride decreases levels of rilpivirine by increasing gastric pH. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration of antacids with rilpivirine may cause significant decreases in rilpivirine plasma concentrations because of increased gastric pH. If antacids must be administered, they should given at least 2 hr before or at least 4 hr after rilpivirine.
- sacubitril/valsartan
sacubitril/valsartan and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- salicylates (non-asa)
salicylates (non-asa) and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- salmeterol
potassium chloride increases and salmeterol decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- salsalate
salsalate and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- sotalol
sotalol and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- sparsentan
sparsentan and potassium chloride both increase serotonin levels. Use Caution/Monitor. Monitor serum potassium frequently.
- succinylcholine
potassium chloride and succinylcholine both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- sulfasalazine
sulfasalazine and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- sulindac
sulindac and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- telmisartan
telmisartan and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- terbutaline
potassium chloride increases and terbutaline decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- timolol
timolol and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- tolfenamic acid
tolfenamic acid and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- tolmetin
tolmetin and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- tolvaptan
potassium chloride and tolvaptan both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- torsemide
potassium chloride increases and torsemide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- trandolapril
trandolapril increases levels of potassium chloride by decreasing elimination. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hyperkalemia.
- trimethoprim
trimethoprim and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor. Trimethoprim decreases urinary potassium excretion. May cause hyperkalemia, particularly with high doses, renal insufficiency, or when combined with other drugs that cause hyperkalemia.
- valsartan
valsartan and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- voclosporin
voclosporin and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
Minor (29)
- acarbose
potassium chloride increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- amphotericin B deoxycholate
amphotericin B deoxycholate decreases levels of potassium chloride by increasing renal clearance. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- bisacodyl
bisacodyl decreases levels of potassium chloride by inhibition of GI absorption. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- bisacodyl rectal
bisacodyl rectal decreases levels of potassium chloride by inhibition of GI absorption. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- cadexomer iodine
cadexomer iodine increases levels of potassium chloride by decreasing renal clearance. Minor/Significance Unknown. Hyperkalemia.
- chlorpropamide
potassium chloride increases effects of chlorpropamide by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- glimepiride
potassium chloride increases effects of glimepiride by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- glipizide
potassium chloride increases effects of glipizide by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- glyburide
potassium chloride increases effects of glyburide by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- insulin aspart
potassium chloride increases effects of insulin aspart by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- insulin detemir
potassium chloride increases effects of insulin detemir by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- insulin glargine
potassium chloride increases effects of insulin glargine by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- insulin glulisine
potassium chloride increases effects of insulin glulisine by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- insulin lispro
potassium chloride increases effects of insulin lispro by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- insulin NPH
potassium chloride increases effects of insulin NPH by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- insulin regular human
potassium chloride increases effects of insulin regular human by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- iodinated glycerol
iodinated glycerol increases levels of potassium chloride by decreasing renal clearance. Minor/Significance Unknown. Hyperkalemia.
- iodine
iodine increases levels of potassium chloride by decreasing renal clearance. Minor/Significance Unknown. Hyperkalemia.
- metformin
potassium chloride increases effects of metformin by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- miglitol
potassium chloride increases effects of miglitol by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- nateglinide
potassium chloride increases effects of nateglinide by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- pioglitazone
potassium chloride increases effects of pioglitazone by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- repaglinide
potassium chloride increases effects of repaglinide by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- rosiglitazone
potassium chloride increases effects of rosiglitazone by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- saxagliptin
potassium chloride increases effects of saxagliptin by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- sitagliptin
potassium chloride increases effects of sitagliptin by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- tolazamide
potassium chloride increases effects of tolazamide by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- tolbutamide
potassium chloride increases effects of tolbutamide by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- vildagliptin
potassium chloride increases effects of vildagliptin by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
Adverse Effects
Frequency Not Defined
Arrhythmias
Bleeding
Diarrhea
Dyspepsia
Hyperkalemia
Nausea
Rash
Vomiting
Postmarketing Reports
Flatulence
Abdominal pain/discomfort
Perforation
Gastrointestinal obstruction
Gastrointestinal ulceration
Gastrointestinal perforation
Hyponatremia
Hyponatremic encephalopathy
Warnings
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity
Untreated Addison disease
Hyperkalemia
Concomitant use with triamterene and amiloride
Renal failure
Cautions
Depending on volume and rate of IV infusion, and patient’s underlying clinical condition, intravenous administration of potassium chloride in sodium chloride can cause electrolyte disturbances such as overhydration/hypervolemia and congested states including central (e.g., pulmonary edema) and peripheral edema
Solutions containing sodium ions should be used with great care, if at all, in patients with congestive heart failure, severe renal insufficiency, and in clinical states in which there is sodium retention with edema
Administration of sodium and potassium in patients with or at risk of severe renal impairment may result in hypernatremia, hyperkalemia and/or fluid overload; avoid potassium chloride in sodium chloride Injection, USP in patients with severe renal impairment
In patients with or at risk of hyperchloremia, potassium chloride injection may exacerbate or result in hyperchloremia; monitor plasma chloride levels and renal function in such patients
If use cannot be avoided, monitor patients with severe renal impairment for development of these adverse reactions
Rapid correction of hypernatremia is potentially dangerous with risk of serious neurologic complications; excessively rapid correction of hypernatremia is also associated with a risk for serious neurologic complications such as osmotic demyelination syndrome (ODS) with risk of seizures and cerebral edema
Rapid correction of hyponatremia is potentially dangerous with risk of serious neurologic complications; brain adaptations reducing risk of cerebral edema make the brain vulnerable to injury when chronic hyponatremia is too rapidly corrected, which is known as osmotic demyelination syndrome (ODS); to avoid complications, monitor serum sodium and chloride concentrations, fluid status, acid-base balance, and signs of neurologic complications
Avoid potassium chloride in sodium chloride injection, USP in patients with or at risk for fluid and/or solute overloading; if use cannot be avoided, monitor fluid balance, electrolyte concentrations and acid base balance as needed and especially during prolonged use
Solutions containing potassium ions should be used with great care, if at all, in patients with hyperkalemia, severe renal failure, and in conditions in which potassium retention is present
The risk for hyponatremia is increased in postoperative patients, those with psychogenic polydipsia, and in patients treated with medications that increase risk of hyponatremia (such as diuretics, certain antiepileptic and psychotropic medications)
Use with care in patients with hypervolemia, renal insufficiency, urinary tract obstruction, or impending or frank cardiac decompensation
Extraordinary electrolyte losses such as may occur during protracted nasogastric suction, vomiting, diarrhea or gastrointestinal fistula drainage may necessitate additional electrolyte supplementation
Additional essential electrolytes, minerals and vitamins should be supplied as needed
Sodium-containing solutions should be administered with caution to patients receiving corticosteroids or corticotropin, or to other salt-retaining patients
Care should be exercised in administering solutions containing sodium or potassium to patients with renal or cardiovascular insufficiency, with or without congestive heart failure, particularly if they are postoperative or elderly
Potassium therapy should be guided primarily by serial electrocardiograms, especially in patients receiving digitalis
Serum potassium levels are not necessarily indicative of tissue potassium levels
Solutions containing potassium should be used with caution in the presence of cardiac disease, particularly when accompanied by renal disease
Potassium chloride in sodium chloride may cause hyponatremia; hyponatremia can lead to acute hyponatremic encephalopathy characterized by headache, nausea, seizures, lethargy, and vomiting; patients with brain edema are at particular risk of severe, irreversible and life-threatening brain injury
Solutions containing dextrose should be used with caution in patients with overt or known subclinical diabetes mellitus, or carbohydrate intolerance for any reason
Perform continuous cardiac monitoring in patients requiring highly concentrated solutions and perform frequent testing for serum potassium and acid-base balance, especially if they receive digitalis
Avoid potassium chloride injection in patients with or at risk for hyponatremia; if use cannot be avoided, monitor serum sodium concentrations
Elderly patients are at increased risk of developing hyponatremia as well as for developing hyponatremic encephalopathy
Closely monitor plasma electrolyte concentrations in pediatric patients who may have impaired ability to regulate fluids and electrolytes; in very low birth weight infants, excessive or rapid administration of potassium chloride in dextrose injection may result in increased serum osmolality and risk of intracerebral hemorrhage
Extravasation
- Care must be taken when infusing concentrated potassium solutions, including potassium chloride injection, to prevent paravenous administration or extravasation; such solutions may be associated with tissue damage, which may be severe and include vascular, nerve, and tendon damage, leading to surgical intervention, including amputation
- Secondary complications including pulmonary embolism from thrombophlebitis reported as a consequence of tissue damage from potassium chloride
Oral administration
- Solid oral dosage forms of potassium chloride can produce ulcerative and/or stenotic lesions of gastrointestinal tract, particularly if drug maintains contact with gastrointestinal mucosa for prolonged periods; consider use of liquid potassium in patients with dysphagia, swallowing disorders, or severe gastrointestinal motility disorders
- If severe vomiting, abdominal pain, distention, or gastrointestinal bleeding occurs, discontinue therapy and consider possibility of ulceration, obstruction or perforation
- Oral formulation should not be taken on an empty stomach because of its potential for gastric irritation
Drug interaction overview
- Administration of potassium chloride in dextrose injection in patients treated concurrently or recently with other products that can cause hyperkalemia or increase risk of hyperkalemia (eg, potassium-sparing diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers) increases risk of severe and potentially fatal hyperkalemia, in presence of other risk factors for hyperkalemia
- Avoid use of potassium chloride in 5% dextrose injection in patients receiving such products; if use cannot be avoided, monitor serum potassium concentrations
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy
There are no human data related to use of potassium chloride extended-release capsules during pregnancy; animal reproductive studies not conducted; potassium supplementation that does not lead to hyperkalemia is not expected to cause fetal harm
Appropriate administration of potassium chloride in dextrose injection during pregnancy is not expected to cause adverse developmental outcomes, including congenital malformations; animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with potassium chloride in dextrose injection
Lactation
Normal potassium ion content of human milk is about 13 mEq per liter; since oral potassium becomes part of the body potassium pool, as long as body potassium is not excessive, contribution of potassium chloride supplementation should have little or no effect on level in human milk
Pregnancy Categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk. C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done. D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk. X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist. NA: Information not available.Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Essential in physiologic processes
Elimination
Excretion: Urine
Administration
IV Incompatibilities
Additive: Ampho B
Y-site: Diazepam
IV Compatibilities
Additive: Aminophylline, amiodarone, Ca gluconate, cimetidine, clindamycin, dobutamine, dopamine, erythromycin, furosemide, heparin, hydrocortisone, lidocaine, norepinephrine, Na bicarb, vancomycin, verapamil
Y-site: Amiodarone, aminophylline, ampicillin, atropine, Ca gluconate, dobutamine, dopamine, epinephrine, esmolol, fentanyl, furosemide, heparin, lidocaine, morphine, norepinephrine, Na bicarb
Not spec.: Cefazolin, tetracycline
Images
| BRAND | FORM. | UNIT PRICE | PILL IMAGE |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-Tab oral - | 20 mEq tablet |  | |
| K-Tab oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| K-Tab oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| K-Tab oral - | 8 mEq tablet |  | |
| Klor-Con 10 oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq miscellaneous |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq capsule |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet | | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq capsule |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 8 mEq capsule |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq miscellaneous |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq miscellaneous |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq miscellaneous |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 40 mEq/15 mL liquid |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 8 mEq tablet | | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq capsule |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 8 mEq capsule |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 8 mEq capsule |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 8 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq/15 mL liquid |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq miscellaneous |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq tablet | | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq miscellaneous |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq capsule |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet | | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 40 mEq/15 mL liquid |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 40 mEq/15 mL liquid |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq/15 mL liquid |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq miscellaneous |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq miscellaneous |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq/15 mL liquid |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq miscellaneous |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet | | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq/15 mL liquid |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 8 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq/15 mL liquid |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq/15 mL liquid |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq/15 mL liquid |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq/15 mL liquid |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq capsule |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq capsule |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq capsule |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq miscellaneous |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq miscellaneous |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 8 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq/15 mL liquid |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq miscellaneous |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 8 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq miscellaneous |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 8 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 20 mEq miscellaneous |  | |
| potassium chloride oral - | 10 mEq tablet |  | |
| potassium chloride intravenous - | 2 mEq/mL vial |  | |
| potassium chloride intravenous - | 2 mEq/mL vial |  | |
| potassium chloride intravenous - | 2 mEq/mL vial |  | |
| potassium chloride intravenous - | 2 mEq/mL vial |  | |
| potassium chloride intravenous - | 2 mEq/mL vial |  | |
| potassium chloride intravenous - | 2 mEq/mL vial |  | |
| potassium chloride intravenous - | 2 mEq/mL vial |  | |
| potassium chloride intravenous - | 2 mEq/mL vial |  | |
| potassium chloride intravenous - | 2 mEq/mL vial |  | |
| potassium chloride intravenous - | 2 mEq/mL vial |  | |
| potassium chloride intravenous - | 2 mEq/mL vial |  | |
| potassium chloride intravenous - | 2 mEq/mL vial |  | |
| Klor-Con M20 oral - | 20 mEq tablet | | |
| Klor-Con M10 oral - | 10 mEq tablet | | |
| Klor-Con 8 oral - | 8 mEq tablet | | |
| Klor-Con M15 oral - | 15 mEq tablet |  |
Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.
Patient Handout
potassium chloride oral
POTASSIUM SOLUTION/POWDER FOR SOLUTION - ORAL
(poe-TAS-ee-um)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Klor-Con
USES: This medication is a mineral supplement used to treat or prevent low amounts of potassium in the blood. A normal level of potassium in the blood is important. Potassium helps your cells, kidneys, heart, muscles, and nerves work properly. Most people get enough potassium by eating a well-balanced diet. Some conditions that can lower your body's potassium level include severe prolonged diarrhea and vomiting, hormone problems such as hyperaldosteronism, or treatment with "water pills"/diuretics.
HOW TO USE: To prevent stomach upset, you must first mix your dose of potassium with a glass (4 to 8 ounces/120 to 240 milliliters) of cold water or juice as directed by your doctor. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. After mixing, slowly drink the entire mixture. Take each dose after a meal. If you have upset stomach, mixing your dose in a larger amount of liquid may help. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take it more often than prescribed.Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if you have symptoms of low potassium in the blood (such as irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness/cramps).
SIDE EFFECTS: Upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, gas, or diarrhea may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: vomit that looks like coffee grounds, stomach/abdominal pain, black/tarry stools.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking potassium, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heart problems, kidney problems, high levels of potassium in the blood, throat/stomach/intestinal problems (such as blockage, narrowing, ulcers).Liquid products may contain alcohol, sugar, or aspartame. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, liver disease, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet.Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).Before using other potassium supplements or salt substitutes that contain potassium, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Too much potassium may cause serious side effects. (See also Overdose section.)During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.Potassium passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are regularly taking other drugs/products that can also raise your potassium level. Examples include eplerenone, ACE inhibitors such as enalapril/lisinopril, angiotensin receptor blockers such as losartan/valsartan, potassium-sparing "water pills"/diuretics such as spironolactone/triamterene, birth control pills that contain drospirenone, among others.
OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, confusion.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.Lab and/or medical tests (such as potassium blood level, kidney function) should be done while you are taking this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.Eat a well-balanced diet. Foods high in potassium include bananas, oranges, cantaloupe, raisins, dates, prunes, avocados, apricots, beans, broccoli, spinach, potatoes, lentils, chicken, turkey, beef, and yogurt. Consult your doctor or dietician for recommended foods.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Information last revised December 2022. Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Formulary
Adding plans allows you to compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.
To view formulary information first create a list of plans. Your list will be saved and can be edited at any time.
Adding plans allows you to:
- View the formulary and any restrictions for each plan.
- Manage and view all your plans together – even plans in different states.
- Compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.
- Access your plan list on any device – mobile or desktop.
