How to Use Potassium Citrate to Raise Urine pH

Potassium citrate raises the pH of urine. In other words, it raises the alkalinity of urine and reduces the acidity. Potassium citrate attaches to calcium in the urine, which prevents calcium from binding to oxalate or phosphate and leading to kidney stone formation. Potassium citrate also can help prevent gout, a type of arthritis caused by calcium oxalate crystals and characterized by sudden severe attacks of pain in a joint.

Things You'll Need

• Prescription for potassium citrate
• Water

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Instructions

• 1

  Ask your doctor about getting a prescription for potassium citrate if you have a tendency to develop kidney stones or if you have experienced a gout attack.

• 2

  Take the potassium citrate supplement as prescribed and according to directions on the label. Dosage usually is three tablets per day.

• 3

  Take the supplement with a meal or immediately after a meal to prevent stomach upset.

• 4

  Swallow the tablet whole followed by an 8-ounce glass of water. If you have been prescribed a dissolving form of potassium citrate, dissolve the tablet into a glass of liquid, such as water or juice, and drink it slowly. Do not chew, suck, or crush either type of tablet.

• 5

  Sit upright or stand for at least 30 minutes after taking potassium citrate rather than lying down, because if any of it sticks in your throat, it can irritate the esophageal lining.

• 6

  Watch for any signs of hyperkalemia, a dangerous condition involving too much potassium in the blood. Symptoms include vomiting, changes in heart rate, trouble breathing, fainting, muscle pain and weakness, and tingling or numb sensations in the hands or feet. Seek emergency medical attention if any of these occur.