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Facts About Potassium Chloride

Potassium chloride is a salt made from potassium. It is a nutritional supplement that is used to treat potassium deficiency. Potassium is an electrolyte that is needed by every cell in the human body. It is important that blood levels of potassium stay within a certain range. Potassium chloride can correct low potassium levels, but it can also cause elevated potassium levels if the recommended dosage is exceeded, or you have certain conditions or take certain medications.

  1. Forms

    • Potassium chloride is available in tablets or capsules. It is also available in liquid, powder or injection form. It is commonly given intravenously to patients with low potassium levels. Tablets or capsules may be prescribed to patients with a potassium deficiency. Potassium chloride in a pill form should be taken with food.

    Adverse Reactions

    • Nausea, abdominal discomfort, flatulence, vomiting and diarrhea are common gastrointestinal reactions to potassium chloride. It may irritate the stomach and cause bleeding in the stomach or small intestines. It is important to follow the dosage recommended by a physician to avoid complications arising from high potassium levels.

    Interactions

    • Certain medications such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) and some diuretics can increase potassium levels. When taken with a potassium supplement such as potassium chloride, they can cause elevated potassium levels. Blood levels should be closely monitored in patients taking these types of drugs and potassium chloride. Salt substitutes containing potassium should be avoided.

    Warnings

    • Potassium chloride should not be taken by people with kidney failure, severe burns, Addison's disease, hyperkalemia or who are taking diuretics. Potassium chloride pills should never be crushed, chewed or allowed to dissolve in the mouth. It can cause irritation or allow the drug to be released too quickly.

    Serious Side Effects

    • Elevated potassium levels can cause erratic heartbeat, palpitations, muscle weakness, fatigue and severe abdominal pain. It can also cause numbness and tingling in the feet, hands or mouth. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage to avoid serious side effects. Do not stop taking the medication without consulting a physician because it can worsen your condition.

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