Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Potassium is essential for the proper functioning of the heart, kidneys, muscles, nerves, and digestive system. Usually the food you eat supplies all of the potassium you need. However, certain diseases and drugs, especially diuretics (‘water pills’), remove potassium from the body. Potassium supplements are taken to replace potassium losses and prevent potassium deficiency.
Uses and Dosage
Potassium is available in various forms, including oral liquid, powder, granules, effervescent tablets, regular tablets, extended-release (long-acting) tablets, and extended-release capsules. Typically, it is recommended to be taken two to four times a day, either with or immediately after meals.
Adhere to the prescribed directions for potassium intake, avoiding deviations such as taking more or less than instructed or consuming it more frequently than recommended by your doctor.
Always take potassium with a full glass of water or fruit juice.
For liquid forms, mix them with water. Dissolve powder, granules, or effervescent tablets in cold water or fruit juice as per the manufacturer’s guidelines or the directions provided on your prescription label. Ensure thorough mixing just before consumption, as cold liquids can help mask any unpleasant taste.
Extended-release tablets and capsules should be swallowed whole; avoid chewing or dissolving them in your mouth.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- diarrhea
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- mental confusion
- listlessness
- tingling, prickling, burning, tight, or pulling sensation of arms, hands, legs, or feet
- heaviness or weakness of legs
- cold, pale, gray skin
- stomach pain
- unusual stomach bulging
- black stools
Caution
- 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.
- 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.
- Due to rare reports of stomach/intestinal ulcers and bleeding with sustained-release potassium products, taking a liquid form of potassium is preferred. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have throat/stomach/intestinal problems such as blockage, narrowing, or ulcers.
- Before using other potassium supplements or salt substitutes that contain potassium, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Too much potassium may cause serious side effects.
- 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.
Form and Strength
Potassium Chloride Oral Solution is available in the following forms and strengths:
- potassium chloride liquid:
- 20 meq / 15 mL
FAQ
Does Potassium Chloride Oral Solution have to be taken with food?
It is recommended to take Potassium Chloride with food to avoid stomach upset. It should always be taken with a full glass of water or juice to help with absorption.
Can you drink alcohol while taking Potassium Chloride Oral Solution?
It’s best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Potassium Chloride because doing so can cause your body’s electrolyte levels, including potassium levels, to be out of balance.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/potassium-chloride/what-is
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/potassium-supplement-oral-route-parenteral-route/description/drg-20070753
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601099.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-676-7058/potassium-chloride-oral/potassium-extended-release-dispersible-tablet-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/pro/potassium-chloride-oral-solution.html#:~:text=1.-,Indications%20and%20Usage%20for%20Potassium%20Chloride%20Oral%20Solution,diuretic%20dose%20reduction%20are%20insufficient
