Potassium Chlor 10% Liq(20meq/15ml)
It is used to treat or prevent low potassium levels.
Drug Class
Electrolyte Supplement
Pharmacologic Class
Electrolyte Replacement
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Potassium chloride is a mineral that is very important for your body to work properly. It helps your nerves, muscles, and heart function correctly. This medicine is used to prevent or treat low potassium levels in your blood.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication
To take this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Take the medication with or immediately after a meal. Mix it with water as directed before consuming, and drink it slowly. It's essential to drink the mixture right away and not save it for later use.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store the medication at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep it in a dry place, avoiding storage in a bathroom. Do not freeze the medication. Always keep your medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for the missed one.
To take this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Take the medication with or immediately after a meal. Mix it with water as directed before consuming, and drink it slowly. It's essential to drink the mixture right away and not save it for later use.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store the medication at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep it in a dry place, avoiding storage in a bathroom. Do not freeze the medication. Always keep your medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for the missed one.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take this medicine with food or immediately after a meal to reduce stomach upset.
- Always dilute the liquid solution in at least 4 ounces (120 mL) of water or juice before taking it. Do not take it undiluted.
- Do not stop taking this medicine or change your dose without talking to your doctor.
- Follow your doctor's instructions regarding dietary potassium intake. Some foods are high in potassium (e.g., bananas, oranges, potatoes, leafy greens).
- Avoid salt substitutes that contain potassium unless advised by your doctor.
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:
Prevention of hypokalemia: 20 mEq (15 mL of 10% solution) orally once daily. Treatment of hypokalemia: 40-100 mEq (30-75 mL of 10% solution) orally daily in 2-4 divided doses.
Dose Range:
20 - 100 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
prevention:
20 mEq/day
treatment:
40-100 mEq/day
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (use with extreme caution, consult specialist)
Infant:
Prevention: 1-2 mEq/kg/day orally in 1-2 divided doses. Treatment: 2-5 mEq/kg/day orally in 2-4 divided doses (max 1 mEq/kg/dose, max 3 mEq/kg/day or 40 mEq/day, whichever is less).
Child:
Prevention: 1-2 mEq/kg/day orally in 1-2 divided doses. Treatment: 2-5 mEq/kg/day orally in 2-4 divided doses (max 1 mEq/kg/dose, max 3 mEq/kg/day or 40 mEq/day, whichever is less).
Adolescent:
Prevention: 20 mEq/day orally. Treatment: 40-100 mEq/day orally in 2-4 divided doses.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
Use with caution, monitor serum potassium closely.
Moderate:
Reduce dose significantly, monitor serum potassium and renal function frequently. Consider alternative if possible.
Severe:
Contraindicated in severe renal impairment (e.g., GFR < 30 mL/min) due to high risk of hyperkalemia.
Dialysis:
Generally contraindicated in anuric patients or those on dialysis unless specifically indicated for documented hypokalemia and under strict monitoring.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific dose adjustment required.
Moderate:
No specific dose adjustment required.
Severe:
No specific dose adjustment required, but monitor for conditions that might affect potassium balance (e.g., diuretic use, renal dysfunction).
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Potassium is the principal intracellular cation, essential for maintaining intracellular tonicity, nerve impulse transmission, cardiac contraction, skeletal and smooth muscle contraction, and maintenance of normal renal function. It plays a critical role in numerous enzymatic reactions and physiological processes.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
High (well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract)
Tmax:
Approximately 1-2 hours (for oral solutions)
FoodEffect:
Food can delay absorption but does not significantly affect the extent of absorption; taking with food can reduce GI upset.
Distribution:
Vd:
Approximately 0.5 L/kg (reflects total body water)
ProteinBinding:
Negligible
CnssPenetration:
Limited
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (homeostatically regulated)
Clearance:
Primarily renal excretion, with some fecal excretion.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (glomerular filtration and tubular secretion)
Unchanged:
100%
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Rapid (within minutes for oral solution)
PeakEffect:
1-2 hours
DurationOfAction:
Dependent on renal function and ongoing potassium losses; typically several hours.
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
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Although many people may not experience any side effects or only have mild ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor:
Stomach pain or diarrhea
Upset stomach or vomiting
* Gas
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. 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
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Although many people may not experience any side effects or only have mild ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor:
Stomach pain or diarrhea
Upset stomach or vomiting
* Gas
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. 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:
- Signs of too much potassium (hyperkalemia): unusual tiredness, weakness, numbness or tingling in hands/feet, slow or irregular heartbeat, muscle cramps, nausea, diarrhea.
- Signs of stomach irritation: severe stomach pain, black/tarry stools, vomiting blood (seek immediate medical attention).
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 drug interactions or health problems that may be relevant to your treatment with this medication.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to inform your doctor and pharmacist about:
All prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications you are taking
Any natural products or vitamins you are using
Any existing health problems you have
Your doctor will need this information to determine whether it is safe for you to take this medication in combination with your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting 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 drug interactions or health problems that may be relevant to your treatment with this medication.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to inform your doctor and pharmacist about:
All prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications you are taking
Any natural products or vitamins you are using
Any existing health problems you have
Your doctor will need this information to determine whether it is safe for you to take this medication in combination with your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
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, it is crucial to adhere to the prescribed dosage and not exceed the amount recommended by your doctor. If you follow a low-salt diet or use a salt substitute, consult with your doctor to discuss any potential interactions.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, notify your doctor immediately. You and your doctor will need to carefully weigh the benefits and risks of taking this medication to ensure the best possible outcome for both you and your baby.
To minimize the risk of severe side effects, it is crucial to adhere to the prescribed dosage and not exceed the amount recommended by your doctor. If you follow a low-salt diet or use a salt substitute, consult with your doctor to discuss any potential interactions.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, notify your doctor immediately. You and your doctor will need to carefully weigh the benefits and risks of taking this medication to ensure the best possible outcome for both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Muscle weakness or paralysis
- Paresthesia (tingling or numbness)
- Fatigue
- Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats, including potentially fatal ventricular fibrillation or asystole)
What to Do:
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention or call a poison control center (1-800-222-1222). Management may include IV calcium (to stabilize cardiac membrane), IV insulin and glucose, sodium bicarbonate, diuretics, or dialysis depending on severity.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride) - concurrent use significantly increases risk of severe hyperkalemia.
- Eplerenone (a selective aldosterone blocker) - concurrent use significantly increases risk of severe hyperkalemia.
- Severe renal impairment (anuria, oliguria, acute renal failure) - high risk of hyperkalemia.
Major Interactions
- ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril, enalapril) - increased risk of hyperkalemia.
- Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) (e.g., valsartan, losartan) - increased risk of hyperkalemia.
- Aliskiren (direct renin inhibitor) - increased risk of hyperkalemia.
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) - can impair renal potassium excretion, increasing hyperkalemia risk, especially in patients with renal impairment or other risk factors.
- Cyclosporine, Tacrolimus - can cause hyperkalemia.
Moderate Interactions
- Digoxin - hypokalemia can potentiate digoxin toxicity; hyperkalemia can reduce digoxin efficacy. Careful monitoring of potassium levels is crucial.
- Beta-blockers (non-selective) - can reduce cellular uptake of potassium, potentially increasing serum potassium.
- Heparin - can cause hypoaldosteronism, leading to hyperkalemia.
- Trimethoprim - can cause hyperkalemia.
Minor Interactions
- Laxatives (chronic use) - can lead to potassium depletion.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Serum Potassium (K+)
Rationale: To establish baseline level and guide initial dosing, especially in patients with hypokalemia.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Renal Function (BUN, Serum 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 abnormalities related to hypokalemia or baseline cardiac conditions, especially in patients with severe hypokalemia or cardiac disease.
Timing: Prior to initiation, particularly if severe hypokalemia or cardiac risk factors are present.
Routine Monitoring
Serum Potassium (K+)
Frequency: Daily or every 2-3 days initially for treatment of hypokalemia, then weekly to monthly for maintenance or prevention, or as clinically indicated.
Target: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L
Action Threshold: Below 3.5 mEq/L (consider dose increase), Above 5.0 mEq/L (consider dose reduction/hold), Above 5.5 mEq/L (urgent intervention for hyperkalemia).
Renal Function (BUN, Serum Creatinine)
Frequency: Periodically, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment or those on concomitant medications affecting renal function.
Target: Within normal limits for patient's age/baseline
Action Threshold: Significant increase in BUN/Creatinine (re-evaluate potassium dosing, assess for hyperkalemia risk).
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Frequency: As clinically indicated, especially if potassium levels are rapidly changing, very low, very high, or if patient develops cardiac symptoms.
Target: Normal sinus rhythm, absence of hyperkalemia/hypokalemia-related changes (e.g., peaked T waves, prolonged PR/QRS, U waves).
Action Threshold: Presence of ECG changes suggestive of hyperkalemia (e.g., peaked T waves, widened QRS, absent P waves) or hypokalemia (e.g., U waves, T wave flattening).
Symptom Monitoring
- Symptoms of hyperkalemia: muscle weakness, fatigue, paresthesia (tingling/numbness), bradycardia, irregular heartbeat, confusion.
- Symptoms of hypokalemia (if treatment is insufficient): muscle weakness, cramps, fatigue, constipation, palpitations, irregular heartbeat.
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Potassium is an essential electrolyte. Oral potassium chloride is generally considered safe and is often used to treat hypokalemia during pregnancy. Adequate potassium levels are important for maternal and fetal health.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
No known increased risk of congenital anomalies.
Second Trimester:
No known adverse effects.
Third Trimester:
No known adverse effects.
Lactation
Potassium is a normal component of breast milk. Oral potassium chloride is considered compatible with breastfeeding. The amount transferred into breast milk is not expected to cause adverse effects in a breastfed infant.
Infant Risk:
Low risk (L1 - Safest)
Pediatric Use
Dosing must be carefully calculated based on body weight and clinical need. Close monitoring of serum potassium and renal function is essential due to the higher risk of hyperkalemia in infants and young children, especially those with immature renal function or dehydration.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients are at increased risk of hyperkalemia due to age-related decline in renal function and potential concomitant use of medications that can increase potassium levels (e.g., ACE inhibitors, ARBs, NSAIDs, potassium-sparing diuretics). Close monitoring of serum potassium and renal function is crucial.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Always dilute liquid potassium chloride in at least 4 ounces (120 mL) of water or juice to prevent gastrointestinal irritation and ulceration.
- Administer with or immediately after meals to minimize GI upset.
- Do not administer to patients with hyperkalemia or severe renal impairment.
- Educate patients on symptoms of hyperkalemia and to seek medical attention if they occur.
- Regular monitoring of serum potassium levels is critical, especially when initiating therapy, adjusting doses, or in patients with risk factors for hyperkalemia (e.g., renal impairment, concomitant medications).
- Check for concomitant medications that can increase potassium levels (e.g., ACE inhibitors, ARBs, potassium-sparing diuretics, NSAIDs).
Alternative Therapies
- Dietary potassium intake (for mild hypokalemia or prevention)
- Other oral potassium salts (e.g., potassium gluconate, potassium citrate)
- Intravenous potassium chloride (for severe or symptomatic hypokalemia, or when oral administration is not feasible)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Low (e.g., $10-$30) per 473 mL bottle (16 fl oz)
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 (Preferred Generic)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more details. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide information about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it happened.