How to Take Liquid Potassium

Individuals who have a potassium deficiency, faced excess vomiting or have not been able to maintain a healthy diet may need to take liquid potassium. Potassium is an important nutrient for the body; low potassium levels can affect things such as kidney function, cell functions and common muscle strains and contractions. If your doctor has prescribed liquid potassium, always follow her directions for taking it.

Things You'll Need

• Liquid potassium
• Water, juice or broth

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Instructions

• 1

  Read the package or bottle of liquid potassium to see the dilution instructions for your particular brand and dosage of liquid potassium. Never drink liquid potassium without diluting it first, as it can upset your stomach. If you are confused about the dosage, contact your health care provider or pharmacist.

• 2

  Mix the potassium chloride with another liquid, such as water, milk, juice or soup broth. Double check package instructions for the maximum amount of liquid that can be mixed with potassium.

• 3

  Drink the mixture slowly over a 10-minute period. Do not gulp it down, as you'll be rewarded with a sick or nauseous feeling. If you notice that it makes you sick when you drink it on an empty stomach, eat a small meal or snack beforehand.

• 4

  Do not lay down for at least 30 minutes after you've taken the liquid potassium. It has a high instance of irritation, such as acid reflux or heartburn, and laying down after drinking it may expedite the problem. Sit or stand until the potassium has a chance to digest.

• 5

  Track your dosages and how often you take them. If you find that you've missed or forgotten a dose, do not take two dosages at once; it will be too hard on your stomach and cause you to be sick. Either take the missed dose as soon as you remember, or take your regularly scheduled one and skip the missed one if it has been two hours or more past your scheduled dose.