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Drug Information for Potassium Chloride IV

Potassium chloride IV (intravenously) is used in the treatment or prevention of hypokalemia (potassium deficiency). Potassium is used in the body for a number of functions, including electrolyte balance, proper heart contraction and protein synthesis, reports globalrph.com.

  1. Administration

    • Potassium chloride is administered intravenously in solution, meaning it is diluted before entering the body. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that it be given as part of maintenance fluids.

    Contradindication

    • Potassium chloride IV should be given with caution to patients with kidney impairment, hyperkalemia (excess potassium), heart conditions, burns and dehydration.

    Dosage

    • Dosage is dependent on the patient and his condition, reports globalrph.com, but total dosage should not exceed 200 milliequivalents in a 24-hour period.

    Side Effects

    • Side effects of potassium chloride IV include nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. University of Maryland Medical Center reports that another possible reaction is potassium intoxication, which can cause confusion, weakness, and result in arrhythmia or other cardiac events.

    Drug Interaction

    • The effects of intravenous potassium chloride may be enhanced due to interactions with ACE inhibitors, some diuretic medications, and salt substitutes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

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