Potassium Chl 40meq Inj, 100ml
It is used to treat or prevent low potassium levels.
Drug Class
Electrolyte Supplement
Pharmacologic Class
Potassium Salt
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Potassium chloride is a medicine given through a vein (IV) to replace potassium in your body. Potassium is a very important mineral that helps your heart, muscles, and nerves work properly. It's used when your potassium levels are too low, which can happen due to certain illnesses, medications, or fluid loss.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. It is essential to follow the dosage instructions carefully. This medication is administered as an infusion into a vein over a specified period.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
If you need to store this medication at home, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine the proper storage procedure.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to receive guidance on the next steps to take.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. It is essential to follow the dosage instructions carefully. This medication is administered as an infusion into a vein over a specified period.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
If you need to store this medication at home, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine the proper storage procedure.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to receive guidance on the next steps to take.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Follow your doctor's instructions regarding diet and fluid intake.
- Report any new or worsening symptoms immediately.
- Understand that this medication is given in a hospital or clinic setting under close supervision.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Potassium Cl 2meq/ml Inj 30ml
- Kcl/d5w/nacl 0.15/0.9 Inj , 1000ml
- Kcl/d5w/nacl .15/.45% Inj, 1000ml
- Potassium Cl 2meq/ml Inj 20ml
- Potassium Cl 2meq/ml Inj 10ml
- Potassium Cl 2meq/ml Inj 20ml
- Pot Chl/nacl 0.15/.45% Inj, 1000ml
- Kcl/d5w/lr 0.15% Inj, 1000ml
- Pot Chloride 20meq Inj, 100ml
- Kcl/d5w/nacl 0.3/0.45 Inj, 1000ml
- Kcl/d5w/nacl .075/.45 Inj, 1000ml
- Kcl/d5w/nacl 0.15/0.2 Inj, 1000ml
- Pot Chl/dextrose 5%/nacl0.45% Inj
- Potassium Chloride ER 8meq Tablets
- Potassium Cl 10meq ER Tablets
- Potassium Chloride ER 8meq ER Tabs
- Potassium Cl 10meq ER Capsules
- Potassium Chlor 10% Liq(20meq/15ml)
- Potassium Chlor 20% Liq(40meq/15ml)
- Potassium Cl Micro 10meq ER Tabs
- Pot Chloride 8meq CR Capsules
- Potassium Chloride 20meq Powder Pkt
- Potassium Cl Micro 10meq ER Tabs
- Potassium Cit ER 1620mg (15meq) Tab
- Potassium Cl Micro 10meq ER Tabs
- Potassium Chl 40meq Inj, 100ml
- Potassium Chloride 10meq Inj, 50ml
- Potassium Chloride 20meq Inj, 50ml
- Potassium Chloride 10meq ER Tablets
- Kcl/d5w/lact 20meq/l Inj, 1000ml
- Potassium Chloride 20meq ER Tablets
- Potassium Cl 20meq ER Tablets
- Potassium Chloride 20meqpowder Pkt
- Potassium Cl 2meq/ml Inj 250ml
- Potassium Cl 2meq/ml Inj 50ml
- Potassium Chl 10meq Inj,100ml
- Pot Chl/nacl 40meq/l Inj, 1000ml
- Pot Chl/d5w 20meq/l Inj, 1000ml
- Pot Chl/d5w 10meq/l Inj, 1000ml
- Potassium Chlor/nacl 20meq/l Inj
- Potassium Chloride 15meq ER Tabs
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
For hypokalemia: Typically 10-20 mEq/hour via slow intravenous infusion. Max infusion rate generally 40 mEq/hour. Total daily dose usually not exceeding 200 mEq.
Dose Range:
10 - 40 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
severe_hypokalemia:
Up to 40 mEq/hour, with continuous ECG monitoring and frequent serum potassium checks. Requires central line for concentrations > 20 mEq/100mL.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
0.5-1 mEq/kg/dose, infused over 1-2 hours. Max 0.5 mEq/kg/hour.
Infant:
0.5-1 mEq/kg/dose, infused over 1-2 hours. Max 0.5 mEq/kg/hour.
Child:
0.5-1 mEq/kg/dose, infused over 1-2 hours. Max 0.5 mEq/kg/hour (or 1 mEq/kg/hour in severe cases with close monitoring).
Adolescent:
Similar to adult dosing, but often weight-based (0.5-1 mEq/kg/dose) or up to 10-20 mEq/hour.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
Use with caution; monitor serum potassium closely.
Moderate:
Significant dose reduction required; monitor serum potassium and renal function frequently. Infusion rate should be slower.
Severe:
Contraindicated in anuric or oliguric patients. If absolutely necessary, use extremely low doses with continuous ECG and frequent potassium monitoring. Risk of hyperkalemia is very high.
Dialysis:
Generally contraindicated in patients with end-stage renal disease on dialysis, unless specifically indicated for severe hypokalemia and under strict medical supervision (e.g., post-dialysis hypokalemia). Dialysis can remove excess potassium.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment needed.
Moderate:
No specific adjustment needed.
Severe:
No specific adjustment needed, but often co-exists with renal impairment or other conditions affecting potassium balance, requiring careful monitoring.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Potassium is the major intracellular cation and is essential for the maintenance of acid-base balance, isotonicity, and the electrodynamic characteristics of the cell. It is involved in nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction (including cardiac muscle), and renal function. Potassium chloride injection provides an exogenous source of potassium to correct hypokalemia and maintain normal intracellular and extracellular potassium concentrations.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
100%
Tmax:
Not applicable (immediate distribution with IV infusion)
FoodEffect:
Not applicable (IV administration)
Distribution:
Vd:
Approximately 0.5 L/kg (reflects total body water, primarily intracellular)
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable (potassium is an ion, not protein bound)
CnssPenetration:
Limited (maintains concentration gradient, but not a drug targeting CNS)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (homeostatically regulated; elimination rate depends on intake, renal function, and cellular shifts)
Clearance:
Primarily renal clearance, regulated by aldosterone and acid-base status.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (approximately 90%), small amounts via feces and sweat.
Unchanged:
100% (as potassium ion)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Rapid (within minutes of IV infusion)
PeakEffect:
Within 1-2 hours of infusion completion, depending on dose and underlying deficit.
DurationOfAction:
Variable, depends on the underlying cause of hypokalemia, renal function, and ongoing losses. Effects persist as long as infusion continues and for a period thereafter until homeostasis is re-established or losses recur.
Confidence:
High
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high potassium levels, including:
+ Abnormal heartbeat
+ Confusion
+ Weakness, lightheadedness, or dizziness
+ Feeling like passing out
+ Numbness or tingling
+ Shortness of breath
Slow heartbeat
Chest pain or pressure
Signs of low sodium levels, such as:
+ Headache
+ Difficulty focusing
+ Memory problems
+ Confusion
+ Weakness
+ Seizures
+ Changes in balance
Shortness of breath, significant weight gain, or swelling in the arms or legs
* Tissue damage at the injection site, characterized by:
+ Redness
+ Burning
+ Pain
+ Swelling
+ Blisters
+ Skin sores
+ Leaking of fluid
If you experience any of these symptoms, notify your nurse or doctor immediately.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, many people do not experience any side effects or only have mild ones. If you have any side effects that bother you or persist, contact your doctor or seek medical help.
Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects not mentioned here. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high potassium levels, including:
+ Abnormal heartbeat
+ Confusion
+ Weakness, lightheadedness, or dizziness
+ Feeling like passing out
+ Numbness or tingling
+ Shortness of breath
Slow heartbeat
Chest pain or pressure
Signs of low sodium levels, such as:
+ Headache
+ Difficulty focusing
+ Memory problems
+ Confusion
+ Weakness
+ Seizures
+ Changes in balance
Shortness of breath, significant weight gain, or swelling in the arms or legs
* Tissue damage at the injection site, characterized by:
+ Redness
+ Burning
+ Pain
+ Swelling
+ Blisters
+ Skin sores
+ Leaking of fluid
If you experience any of these symptoms, notify your nurse or doctor immediately.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, many people do not experience any side effects or only have mild ones. If you have any side effects that bother you or persist, contact your doctor or seek medical help.
Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects not mentioned here. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
- Muscle cramps or pain
- Irregular or fast heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Confusion
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
If you have high potassium levels, as this may affect the safety of taking this medication.
If you are currently taking any of the following medications: Amiloride, Eplerenone, Spironolactone, or Triamterene, as these may interact with this drug.
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all potential interactions. To ensure your safety, it is crucial to disclose all of your:
Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications
Natural products
Vitamins
* Health problems
Your doctor and pharmacist need this information to assess the safety of taking this medication in conjunction with your other treatments and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor to confirm that it is safe to do so.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
If you have high potassium levels, as this may affect the safety of taking this medication.
If you are currently taking any of the following medications: Amiloride, Eplerenone, Spironolactone, or Triamterene, as these may interact with this drug.
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all potential interactions. To ensure your safety, it is crucial to disclose all of your:
Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications
Natural products
Vitamins
* Health problems
Your doctor and pharmacist need this information to assess the safety of taking this medication in conjunction with your other treatments and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor to confirm that it is safe to do so.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Regular blood tests will be necessary, as directed by your doctor, to monitor your condition. Be sure to discuss any concerns or questions with your doctor.
To minimize the risk of severe side effects, do not exceed the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Taking more than the recommended amount can increase the likelihood of adverse reactions. If you follow a low-salt diet or use a salt substitute, consult with your doctor to discuss any potential interactions.
Certain formulations of this medication may not be suitable for children, so it is crucial to consult with your doctor if you are considering administering it to a child.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor immediately. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby to make an informed decision.
To minimize the risk of severe side effects, do not exceed the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Taking more than the recommended amount can increase the likelihood of adverse reactions. If you follow a low-salt diet or use a salt substitute, consult with your doctor to discuss any potential interactions.
Certain formulations of this medication may not be suitable for children, so it is crucial to consult with your doctor if you are considering administering it to a child.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor immediately. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby to make an informed decision.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Muscle weakness (flaccid paralysis)
- Paresthesias
- Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Cardiac arrhythmias (e.g., ventricular fibrillation, asystole)
- ECG changes (peaked T waves, widened QRS, prolonged PR interval, absent P waves)
What to Do:
Immediate cessation of potassium infusion. Administration of calcium gluconate (to stabilize cardiac membrane), insulin and dextrose (to shift potassium intracellularly), sodium bicarbonate (to shift potassium intracellularly), and/or loop diuretics (to increase renal excretion). Hemodialysis may be necessary in severe, life-threatening hyperkalemia, especially with renal failure. Call 911 or emergency services immediately.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride) in patients with normal renal function (risk of severe hyperkalemia)
- Patients with hyperkalemia
- Severe renal impairment (anuria, oliguria) unless under strict monitoring for specific indications
Major Interactions
- ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril, enalapril): Increased risk of hyperkalemia.
- Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) (e.g., valsartan, losartan): Increased risk of hyperkalemia.
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen): May impair renal potassium excretion, increasing hyperkalemia risk.
- Cyclosporine, Tacrolimus: May increase serum potassium.
- Trimethoprim: Can cause hyperkalemia, especially in combination with other potassium-raising drugs.
- Digoxin: Hyperkalemia can antagonize the effects of digoxin, while hypokalemia can potentiate digoxin toxicity.
Moderate Interactions
- Beta-blockers (non-selective): May reduce cellular uptake of potassium, potentially increasing serum levels.
- Heparin: Can cause hypoaldosteronism, leading to hyperkalemia.
- Succinylcholine: May cause a transient increase in serum potassium, especially in patients with burns or trauma.
Minor Interactions
- Licorice: Can cause hypokalemia, potentially counteracting potassium supplementation.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Serum Potassium (K+)
Rationale: To determine the degree of hypokalemia and guide initial dosing.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine, GFR)
Rationale: Potassium is primarily renally excreted; impaired renal function significantly increases the risk of hyperkalemia.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Rationale: To assess for cardiac manifestations of hypokalemia (e.g., flattened T waves, U waves, ST depression) and to monitor for signs of hyperkalemia (e.g., peaked T waves, widened QRS, prolonged PR interval) during infusion.
Timing: Prior to initiation and during rapid or high-dose infusions.
Other Electrolytes (Magnesium, Calcium, Phosphate)
Rationale: Hypokalemia often co-exists with other electrolyte imbalances, particularly hypomagnesemia, which can make potassium repletion difficult.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Routine Monitoring
Serum Potassium (K+)
Frequency: Every 2-4 hours during rapid infusion or severe hypokalemia; every 6-12 hours for moderate hypokalemia; daily once stable.
Target: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L
Action Threshold: If K+ > 5.0 mEq/L, stop infusion and reassess. If K+ not rising as expected, check for hypomagnesemia or ongoing losses.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Frequency: Continuous monitoring during rapid or high-dose infusions (e.g., >20 mEq/hr); intermittent monitoring for slower infusions.
Target: Normal sinus rhythm, absence of hyperkalemia signs.
Action Threshold: Development of peaked T waves, widened QRS, or other signs of hyperkalemia requires immediate cessation of infusion and intervention.
Fluid Balance (Intake/Output)
Frequency: Every 4-8 hours.
Target: Appropriate balance for patient's condition.
Action Threshold: Significant fluid retention or dehydration may impact electrolyte concentrations.
Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine)
Frequency: Daily or every other day, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment or those receiving prolonged therapy.
Target: Stable or improving renal function.
Action Threshold: Worsening renal function necessitates immediate re-evaluation of potassium dosing.
Symptom Monitoring
- Muscle weakness
- Fatigue
- Muscle cramps
- Paresthesias
- Palpitations
- Irregular heartbeat
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal discomfort
- Confusion
- Lethargy
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Potassium is an essential electrolyte. Potassium chloride injection should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and the benefits outweigh the potential risks. Hypokalemia can be dangerous for both mother and fetus.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
No specific known risks beyond general electrolyte balance.
Second Trimester:
No specific known risks beyond general electrolyte balance.
Third Trimester:
No specific known risks beyond general electrolyte balance. Close monitoring of maternal potassium levels is important, especially if pre-eclampsia or other conditions affecting fluid/electrolyte balance are present.
Lactation
Potassium is a normal component of breast milk. Supplementation is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding when clinically indicated, as it is an essential electrolyte.
Infant Risk:
Low risk. Normal physiological levels are maintained.
Pediatric Use
Dosing must be carefully calculated based on weight (mEq/kg) and the severity of hypokalemia. Infusion rates must be slow and closely monitored to prevent hyperkalemia. Neonates and infants are particularly vulnerable to rapid changes in potassium levels. Continuous ECG monitoring is often recommended for moderate to severe hypokalemia.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients are at increased risk of renal impairment, which can significantly reduce potassium excretion and increase the risk of hyperkalemia. They may also be on medications that affect potassium levels (e.g., ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics). Close monitoring of renal function and serum potassium is essential.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- NEVER administer undiluted potassium chloride intravenously or via IV push. Fatal cardiac arrest can occur.
- Always dilute potassium chloride in a large volume of intravenous fluid (e.g., D5W, NS) before administration.
- Maximum recommended concentration for peripheral IV infusion is typically 20-40 mEq/L (or 20 mEq/100mL). Higher concentrations (e.g., 40 mEq/100mL) should ideally be administered via a central venous catheter due to increased risk of vein irritation and phlebitis.
- Maximum infusion rate should generally not exceed 10-20 mEq/hour in adults, unless in severe, life-threatening hypokalemia with continuous ECG monitoring and frequent potassium checks (up to 40 mEq/hour).
- Correct hypomagnesemia concurrently, as magnesium is required for cellular potassium uptake and retention.
- Monitor ECG for signs of hyperkalemia (peaked T waves, widened QRS) or persistent hypokalemia (flattened T waves, U waves).
- Patients with renal impairment are at significantly higher risk of hyperkalemia; dose adjustments and vigilant monitoring are crucial.
Alternative Therapies
- Oral potassium chloride supplements (for mild to moderate hypokalemia or maintenance)
- Dietary potassium intake (for prevention or mild cases)
- Potassium-rich foods (e.g., bananas, oranges, potatoes, leafy greens)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$5 - $20 per 100mL vial/bag (40 mEq)
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 (Generic)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health problems do not improve or worsen over time, it is essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety and the safety of others, never share your medication with anyone, and do not take medication prescribed to someone else.
Store all medications in a secure location, out of reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion. Properly dispose of any unused or expired medication. Unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional or pharmacist, avoid flushing medication down the toilet or pouring it down the drain. If you are unsure about the best method for disposing of medication, consult with your pharmacist, as they may be aware of drug take-back programs in your area.
Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it is a good idea to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider.
In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately contact your local poison control center or seek medical attention. Be prepared to provide information about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it was taken, as this will aid in providing you with the appropriate care.
Store all medications in a secure location, out of reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion. Properly dispose of any unused or expired medication. Unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional or pharmacist, avoid flushing medication down the toilet or pouring it down the drain. If you are unsure about the best method for disposing of medication, consult with your pharmacist, as they may be aware of drug take-back programs in your area.
Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it is a good idea to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider.
In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately contact your local poison control center or seek medical attention. Be prepared to provide information about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it was taken, as this will aid in providing you with the appropriate care.