About potassium chloride usp
Electrolyte replacement
Used for
- Prevention or treatment of low blood potassium.
- Replacement when dietary potassium is inadequate.
Usual adult dose
Usually 20–40 mEq daily for prevention; treatment is individualized by blood tests and cause.
Usual dose in children
For children, dosing is individualized by weight, blood tests, and clinical condition.
Common side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Abdominal discomfort
- High blood potassium, potentially causing dangerous heart rhythms
Important warnings
- Must be diluted and taken with food or after meals.
- Use cautiously with kidney disease or conditions affecting potassium balance.
- Overdose can cause life-threatening heart rhythm problems.
- Blood potassium and kidney function may need monitoring.
Pregnancy
Generally considered acceptable when medically needed; dose should reflect potassium levels and kidney function.
Breastfeeding
Generally compatible when medically needed; excess potassium may be harmful, especially with kidney problems.
Interactions
- ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and aliskiren can increase blood potassium.
- Potassium-sparing diuretics, such as spironolactone, raise potassium risk.
- NSAIDs may increase blood potassium, particularly with kidney disease.
- Some medicines can irritate the digestive tract when taken with potassium.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.