Potassium Chloride 10meq ER Tablets
It is used to treat or prevent low potassium levels.
Drug Class
Electrolyte Supplement
Pharmacologic Class
Mineral Supplement
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Potassium chloride is a mineral supplement used to prevent or treat low potassium levels in your blood. Potassium is very important for your heart, muscles, and nerves to work properly.
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 your medication with or immediately after a meal, and swallow it whole with a full glass of water. Do not chew, break, or crush the tablet. If you have trouble swallowing, consult your doctor for guidance.
In some cases, your doctor may allow you to break the tablet in half or mix the whole tablet with 1/2 cup of water. If this is an option for you, be sure to drink the mixture immediately. Rinse the cup with more water, drink, and then rinse again to ensure you take the entire dose. Do not store the mixture for later use.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature, protected from light and moisture. Keep it in a dry place, away from bathrooms. Ensure all medications are stored in a safe location, out of reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. If you have questions about disposal, consult your pharmacist. You may also have access to drug take-back programs in your area.
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 dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular 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 your medication with or immediately after a meal, and swallow it whole with a full glass of water. Do not chew, break, or crush the tablet. If you have trouble swallowing, consult your doctor for guidance.
In some cases, your doctor may allow you to break the tablet in half or mix the whole tablet with 1/2 cup of water. If this is an option for you, be sure to drink the mixture immediately. Rinse the cup with more water, drink, and then rinse again to ensure you take the entire dose. Do not store the mixture for later use.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature, protected from light and moisture. Keep it in a dry place, away from bathrooms. Ensure all medications are stored in a safe location, out of reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. If you have questions about disposal, consult your pharmacist. You may also have access to drug take-back programs in your area.
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 dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular 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 medication with food or immediately after a meal to reduce stomach upset.
- Swallow the extended-release tablets whole; do not crush, chew, or suck on them, as this can cause a sudden release of potassium and lead to irritation or high potassium levels.
- Do not use salt substitutes that contain potassium unless advised by your doctor.
- Report any signs of high potassium (muscle weakness, slow heartbeat, tingling) or severe stomach upset immediately.
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:
20 mEq to 100 mEq per day in divided doses
Dose Range:
20 - 100 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
hypokalemia_prevention:
20 mEq per day
mild_moderate_hypokalemia:
20-40 mEq per day in 1-2 divided doses
severe_hypokalemia:
40-100 mEq per day in 2-5 divided doses (often initiated with IV, then oral)
diuretic_induced_hypokalemia:
20 mEq per day, adjusted based on serum potassium
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (use IV for severe hypokalemia, oral only with extreme caution and specific guidance)
Infant:
Not established (use IV for severe hypokalemia, oral only with extreme caution and specific guidance)
Child:
2-4 mEq/kg/day in divided doses, not to exceed 100 mEq/day
Adolescent:
2-4 mEq/kg/day in divided doses, not to exceed 100 mEq/day (or adult dose if appropriate)
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
Use with caution, monitor serum potassium closely
Moderate:
Significant dose reduction required, monitor serum potassium and renal function frequently. Consider alternative if possible.
Severe:
Contraindicated due to high risk of hyperkalemia
Dialysis:
Contraindicated in most cases due to high risk of hyperkalemia; if used, only under strict medical supervision with frequent monitoring and specific indications.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment needed, monitor serum potassium
Moderate:
No specific adjustment needed, monitor serum potassium
Severe:
No specific adjustment needed, monitor serum potassium (hepatic impairment does not directly affect potassium excretion, but co-morbidities might)
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Potassium is the principal intracellular cation and is essential for the maintenance of acid-base balance, isotonicity, and the electrodynamic characteristics of the cell. Potassium is involved in many enzymatic reactions and plays a vital role in the physiological processes of nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and renal function. Potassium chloride provides potassium ions to replenish depleted body stores.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Nearly 100% (for potassium ions)
Tmax:
Approximately 3-6 hours (for ER formulations, due to slow release)
FoodEffect:
Food can slow absorption but generally does not reduce the extent of absorption. Taking with food is recommended to minimize gastrointestinal irritation.
Distribution:
Vd:
Approximately 0.5 L/kg (reflects total body water)
ProteinBinding:
Not significantly protein bound
CnssPenetration:
Limited (potassium is actively regulated in CNS)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (potassium is an electrolyte, not metabolized; its concentration is homeostatically regulated)
Clearance:
Primarily renal excretion, regulated by aldosterone and renal tubular function
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (approximately 90%), fecal (approximately 10%)
Unchanged:
100% (as potassium ions)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Hours (for oral ER formulations, due to slow release and absorption)
PeakEffect:
Approximately 3-6 hours (corresponds to Tmax)
DurationOfAction:
Up to 12 hours (due to extended-release formulation)
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Serious Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while 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 bowel problems, such as:
+ Black, tarry, or bloody stools
+ Fever
+ Mucus in the stools
+ Vomiting blood or coffee ground-like material
+ Severe stomach pain, constipation, or diarrhea
Abdominal swelling
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 are bothered by any of the following side effects or if they do not go away, contact your doctor:
Stomach pain or diarrhea
Upset stomach or vomiting
Gas
Note: Some potassium products have a wax matrix that may be visible in your stool. This is normal, as the potassium has been absorbed by the body, but the wax has not.
Reporting Side Effects
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while 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 bowel problems, such as:
+ Black, tarry, or bloody stools
+ Fever
+ Mucus in the stools
+ Vomiting blood or coffee ground-like material
+ Severe stomach pain, constipation, or diarrhea
Abdominal swelling
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 are bothered by any of the following side effects or if they do not go away, contact your doctor:
Stomach pain or diarrhea
Upset stomach or vomiting
Gas
Note: Some potassium products have a wax matrix that may be visible in your stool. This is normal, as the potassium has been absorbed by the body, but the wax has not.
Reporting Side Effects
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact 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:
- Severe stomach pain, bloating, or black/tarry stools (may indicate gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding)
- Vomiting
- Muscle weakness or paralysis
- Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
- Slow, irregular, or fast heartbeat
- Confusion
- Shortness of breath
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 conditions to ensure safe treatment:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
High potassium levels in your blood.
If you are taking any of the following medications: Amiloride, Eplerenone, Spironolactone, or Triamterene.
Certain health conditions, including:
+ A bowel block or obstruction.
+ A slow-moving gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
+ Slow stomach emptying.
+ Heart disease accompanied by esophageal problems.
+ Use of anticholinergic medications, such as Ipratropium or Oxybutynin. If you are unsure whether any of your medications fall into this category, consult your doctor.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health issues with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine whether it is safe to take this medication in conjunction with your other treatments and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions to ensure safe treatment:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
High potassium levels in your blood.
If you are taking any of the following medications: Amiloride, Eplerenone, Spironolactone, or Triamterene.
Certain health conditions, including:
+ A bowel block or obstruction.
+ A slow-moving gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
+ Slow stomach emptying.
+ Heart disease accompanied by esophageal problems.
+ Use of anticholinergic medications, such as Ipratropium or Oxybutynin. If you are unsure whether any of your medications fall into this category, consult your doctor.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health issues with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine whether it is safe to take this medication in conjunction with your other treatments and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage 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, do not exceed the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Taking more than the recommended amount can increase your chances of experiencing adverse reactions. 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 this medication to 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 your chances of experiencing adverse reactions. 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 this medication to you and your baby to make an informed decision.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Hyperkalemia (high potassium levels)
- Muscle weakness, flaccid paralysis
- Paresthesias (tingling sensation)
- Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Cardiac arrhythmias (e.g., peaked T waves, widened QRS, absent P waves, ventricular fibrillation, asystole)
- Cardiac arrest
What to Do:
Seek immediate medical attention. Call 911 or Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. Management may include IV calcium gluconate (for cardiac stability), IV insulin and glucose, sodium bicarbonate, loop diuretics, or hemodialysis.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride) - concurrent use significantly increases risk of severe hyperkalemia.
- ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril, enalapril) - increased risk of hyperkalemia, especially in patients with renal impairment.
- Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) (e.g., valsartan, losartan) - increased risk of hyperkalemia, especially in patients with renal impairment.
- Aliskiren - increased risk of hyperkalemia, especially in patients with renal impairment.
- Cyclosporine - increased risk of hyperkalemia.
- Tacrolimus - increased risk of hyperkalemia.
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) - can impair renal potassium excretion, increasing hyperkalemia risk, especially in predisposed patients.
- Digoxin - hyperkalemia can antagonize the effects of digoxin, while hypokalemia can potentiate digoxin toxicity.
Major Interactions
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride)
- ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril, enalapril)
- Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) (e.g., valsartan, losartan)
- Aliskiren
- Cyclosporine
- Tacrolimus
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
- Digoxin
Moderate Interactions
- Beta-blockers (non-selective) - may reduce cellular uptake of potassium, leading to higher serum levels.
- Heparin - can cause hypoaldosteronism, leading to hyperkalemia.
- Trimethoprim - can cause hyperkalemia by blocking renal tubular potassium secretion.
- Succinylcholine - can cause a transient increase in serum potassium, potentially leading to arrhythmias in susceptible patients.
Minor Interactions
- Licorice - can cause hypokalemia, potentially counteracting potassium supplementation.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Serum Potassium
Rationale: To establish baseline level and determine initial dosing, and to identify pre-existing hyperkalemia (contraindication).
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Renal Function (BUN, Serum Creatinine, eGFR)
Rationale: To assess kidney function, as potassium is primarily renally excreted and impaired function increases hyperkalemia risk.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Rationale: Recommended for patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions or significant electrolyte imbalances, as severe hyperkalemia can cause life-threatening arrhythmias.
Timing: Prior to initiation, if indicated
Routine Monitoring
Serum Potassium
Frequency: Initially within 2-7 days of starting therapy or dose adjustment, then weekly to monthly depending on stability and patient risk factors (e.g., renal impairment, concomitant medications).
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/discontinuation), Above 5.5 mEq/L (urgent evaluation for hyperkalemia, consider immediate intervention).
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 age/sex
Action Threshold: Significant worsening of renal function may necessitate dose adjustment or discontinuation of potassium.
Symptom Monitoring
- Symptoms of hyperkalemia: muscle weakness, fatigue, paresthesias (tingling/numbness), bradycardia, palpitations, shortness of breath, confusion.
- Symptoms of hypokalemia (if treatment is insufficient): muscle weakness, cramps, fatigue, constipation, palpitations, polyuria.
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Potassium chloride is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy when indicated for the treatment or prevention of hypokalemia. Adequate potassium levels are important for maternal and fetal health. Monitor serum potassium levels closely.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
No known increased risk of congenital malformations.
Second Trimester:
No known adverse effects.
Third Trimester:
No known adverse effects.
Lactation
Potassium is a normal component of breast milk. Supplementation with potassium chloride is generally considered safe during breastfeeding as it is an essential electrolyte and is not expected to cause adverse effects in the infant at therapeutic doses.
Infant Risk:
Low risk
Pediatric Use
Dosing is weight-based and requires careful calculation. Risk of hyperkalemia is higher in children with renal impairment. Oral extended-release formulations may be difficult for young children to swallow; consider liquid or effervescent forms if available and appropriate. Close monitoring of serum potassium is essential.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients are at increased risk for hyperkalemia due to age-related decline in renal function and increased likelihood of concomitant medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors, ARBs, NSAIDs, potassium-sparing diuretics) that can elevate potassium levels. Close monitoring of serum potassium and renal function is crucial. Lower starting doses and slower titration may be appropriate.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Always check serum potassium and renal function (BUN/creatinine) before initiating and periodically during potassium chloride therapy.
- Instruct patients to swallow extended-release tablets whole; crushing or chewing can lead to a rapid release of potassium, causing GI irritation or hyperkalemia.
- Administer with food or immediately after meals to minimize gastrointestinal upset and reduce the risk of GI lesions.
- Be vigilant for drug interactions, especially with ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and potassium-sparing diuretics, which significantly increase the risk of hyperkalemia.
- Symptoms of hyperkalemia (muscle weakness, fatigue, paresthesias, cardiac arrhythmias) require immediate medical attention.
- Consider alternative formulations (liquid, powder for solution) for patients who cannot swallow tablets whole or who have difficulty with esophageal transit.
Alternative Therapies
- Dietary potassium intake (e.g., bananas, oranges, potatoes, leafy greens)
- Intravenous potassium chloride (for severe or symptomatic hypokalemia)
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, amiloride, triamterene) - used to prevent potassium loss, not to directly supplement potassium.
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Varies widely, typically $10-$50 per 30 tablets
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 (Generic)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is 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 it is a good idea to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, do not hesitate to discuss them with 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 details about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.