Indications
- Medication is a mineral supplement addressing low potassium levels in the blood.
- Adequate potassium is crucial for proper functioning of cells, kidneys, heart, muscles, and nerves.
- A balanced diet usually provides sufficient potassium for most individuals.
- Conditions leading to low potassium levels include prolonged diarrhea, vomiting, hyperaldosteronism, or use of diuretics (“water pills”).
Dosage and administration
- To prevent stomach upset, mix potassium dose with 4 to 8 ounces (120 to 240 milliliters) of cold water or juice, as directed by the doctor.
- Use a special measuring device/spoon for the liquid form; do not use a household spoon.
- After mixing, drink the entire mixture slowly; take each dose with or after a meal.
- If upset stomach occurs, mixing the dose in a larger amount of liquid may help.
- Take the medication regularly at the same time(s) each day for maximum benefit.
- Dosage is determined by medical condition and treatment response; do not exceed or increase the prescribed dose.
- Inform your doctor if your condition doesn’t improve or if you experience symptoms of low potassium (e.g., irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness/cramps).
Side effects
- Possible side effects of the medication include upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, gas, or diarrhea.
- If these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
- The medication is prescribed because the benefits outweigh the risk of side effects for most people.
- Seek immediate medical help for very serious side effects such as vomit resembling coffee grounds, abdominal pain, or black/tarry stools.
- A severe allergic reaction to the drug is rare but requires immediate medical attention, with symptoms like rash, swelling of face/tongue/throat, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
- The provided information does not cover all possible side effects; contact your doctor or pharmacist for any unlisted effects.
Precautions
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies before taking potassium, as the product may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions.
- Share your medical history, especially heart problems, kidney problems, high blood potassium levels, or throat/stomach/intestinal issues.
- Be cautious with liquid products, as they may contain alcohol, sugar, or aspartame; consult your doctor if you have diabetes, liver disease, phenylketonuria (PKU), or other conditions requiring dietary restrictions.
- Before surgery, disclose all products you use, including prescriptions, non-prescriptions, and herbal items.
- Consult your doctor before using other potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium to avoid serious side effects.
- During pregnancy, use potassium only if necessary, and discuss risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Potassium passes into breast milk; consult your doctor before breastfeeding.