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Harmful Effects of Potassium Chloride

Potassium plays a critical role in nutrition, helping to keep blood pressure in check while assisting in maintaining nerve function and muscle control. People who do not get enough potassium in their daily diet can turn to supplements, potassium chloride being one of the most common. While potassium chloride is generally a safe substance when following doctors' instructions, it also can cause a few harmful and possibly even fatal effects when used incorrectly.

  1. Side Effects

    • The most common side effect associated with potassium chloride is gastrointestinal distress, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. This can include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, gas and diarrhea. Rarely, potassium chloride tablets can cause intestinal ulcers. Taking potassium chloride with meals can reduce these side effects.

    Overdose

    • High dosages of potassium chloride, generally doses of 18 grams or more, can be lethal. In fact, executioners often administer the substance as the fatal agent in lethal injections. Hyperkalemia denotes the condition of dangerously high levels of potassium. Its symptoms can include muscle fatigue, weakness, abnormal heartbeat and an upset stomach, according to the Mayo Clinic. In more serious cases, hyperkalemia can cause paralysis or cardiac arrest. Hyperkalemia requires immediate medical attention and might require medications or dialysis for treatment.

    Interactions

    • Taking potassium chloride in conjunction with a few other medications can cause harmful effects. In particular, people taking potassium-sparing diuretics such as amiloride, spironolactone or triamterene should avoid taking potassium chloride. Combining the two substances can cause dangerously high potassium levels. Additionally, people taking angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, such as captopril or enalapril, should take potassium chloride only under the careful supervision of a doctor. ACE inhibitors cause the body to retain potassium, increasing the risk of hyperkalemia.

    Elevated Risk Factors

    • Certain people are more susceptible than others to the harmful effects of potassium chloride. Children, and especially infants, have a much lower level of adequate intake for potassium than adults. While adults need about 4,700 milligrams of potassium per day, an 8-year-old needs only 3,800 milligrams per day, and infants need less than 1,000 milligrams. Therefore, it takes less potassium chloride to cause hyperkalemia in children. The elderly also face a higher risk of the harmful effects, as do those who have kidney disease.

    Allergies

    • Allergic reactions to potassium chloride are rare but can be potentially deadly. A skin rash or itching and swelling, particularly on the face or in the mouth, signals an allergic reaction. Other symptoms can include difficulty breathing or severe dizziness. Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect an allergic reaction is occurring.

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