Potassium Chloride 10meq Inj, 50ml
It is used to treat or prevent low potassium levels.
Drug Class
Electrolyte replacement
Pharmacologic Class
Electrolyte
Pregnancy Category
A
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Potassium chloride is an essential mineral that is given through an IV (into your vein) to treat or prevent 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 Correctly
To ensure safe and effective use, take this medication exactly as directed by your doctor. Carefully read all the information provided to you and follow the instructions precisely. This medication is administered as an intravenous infusion, which means it is given slowly into a vein over a period of time.
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 immediately to receive guidance on what to do next.
To ensure safe and effective use, take this medication exactly as directed by your doctor. Carefully read all the information provided to you and follow the instructions precisely. This medication is administered as an intravenous infusion, which means it is given slowly into a vein over a period of time.
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 immediately to receive guidance on what to do next.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Follow your doctor's instructions regarding diet and fluid intake.
- Report any unusual symptoms immediately, especially muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or numbness/tingling.
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:
Individualized based on serum potassium levels and clinical condition. Typically, 10-20 mEq/hour via peripheral IV, not exceeding 40 mEq/hour via central line with continuous ECG monitoring.
Dose Range:
10 - 40 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
hypokalemia_mild_moderate:
10-20 mEq/hour
hypokalemia_severe_symptomatic:
Up to 40 mEq/hour (central line, ECG monitoring)
prevention_of_hypokalemia:
20-40 mEq/day in divided doses or continuous infusion
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established for routine use; highly specialized and individualized (e.g., 0.5-1 mEq/kg/day in TPN).
Infant:
0.5-1 mEq/kg/dose infused over 1-2 hours; maximum 20-40 mEq/dose. Max daily dose 3 mEq/kg or 100 mEq.
Child:
0.5-1 mEq/kg/dose infused over 1-2 hours; maximum 20-40 mEq/dose. Max daily dose 3 mEq/kg or 100 mEq.
Adolescent:
Similar to adult dosing, but consider weight and renal function. Max 20-40 mEq/hour.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
Use with caution; monitor serum potassium closely.
Moderate:
Significant dose reduction or avoidance; contraindicated if anuric or oliguric.
Severe:
Contraindicated due to high risk of hyperkalemia.
Dialysis:
Generally avoided unless patient is hypokalemic despite dialysis; close monitoring required.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment needed.
Moderate:
No specific adjustment needed.
Severe:
No specific adjustment needed, but often associated with other conditions that affect potassium balance (e.g., ascites, diuretic use).
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Potassium is the major intracellular cation and is essential for the maintenance of intracellular tonicity, transmission of nerve impulses, contraction of cardiac, skeletal, and smooth muscle, and maintenance of normal renal function. It plays a critical role in numerous enzymatic reactions and physiological processes.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
100% (IV administration)
Tmax:
Not applicable (IV)
FoodEffect:
Not applicable (IV)
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable; primarily intracellular distribution
ProteinBinding:
Negligible
CnssPenetration:
Yes, but tightly regulated
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not a typical drug half-life; homeostatically regulated
Clearance:
Primarily renal clearance
ExcretionRoute:
Urine (approximately 90%), feces (approximately 10%)
Unchanged:
100%
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Immediate (IV)
PeakEffect:
Within minutes (IV)
DurationOfAction:
Dependent on renal function and ongoing potassium losses
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent 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 low sodium levels, such as:
+ Headache
+ Difficulty focusing
+ Memory problems
+ Confusion
+ Weakness
+ Seizures
+ Changes in balance
Shortness of breath
Sudden weight gain
Swelling in the arms or legs
Important Injection Site Reaction
If the medication leaks from the vein, it can cause tissue damage. Inform your nurse immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms at the injection site:
Redness
Burning
Pain
Swelling
Blisters
Skin sores
Leaking of fluid
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to contact your doctor if you have any symptoms that bother you or persist. Not all possible side effects are listed here. If you have questions or concerns, consult your doctor.
Reporting Side Effects
To report side effects, you can:
Call your doctor for medical advice
Contact the FDA at 1-800-332-1088
Visit the FDA's MedWatch website 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 low sodium levels, such as:
+ Headache
+ Difficulty focusing
+ Memory problems
+ Confusion
+ Weakness
+ Seizures
+ Changes in balance
Shortness of breath
Sudden weight gain
Swelling in the arms or legs
Important Injection Site Reaction
If the medication leaks from the vein, it can cause tissue damage. Inform your nurse immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms at the injection site:
Redness
Burning
Pain
Swelling
Blisters
Skin sores
Leaking of fluid
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to contact your doctor if you have any symptoms that bother you or persist. Not all possible side effects are listed here. If you have questions or concerns, consult your doctor.
Reporting Side Effects
To report side effects, you can:
Call your doctor for medical advice
Contact the FDA at 1-800-332-1088
Visit the FDA's MedWatch website at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Severe muscle weakness or paralysis
- Numbness or tingling in hands, feet, or lips
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
- Confusion
- Severe nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
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 adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor to confirm 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 adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor to confirm 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 prescribed dosage. Adhering to your doctor's instructions regarding dosage is crucial. If you follow a low-sodium 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 essential to consult with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Additionally, if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.
To minimize the risk of severe side effects, do not exceed the prescribed dosage. Adhering to your doctor's instructions regarding dosage is crucial. If you follow a low-sodium 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 essential to consult with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Additionally, if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Hyperkalemia symptoms: muscle weakness, flaccid paralysis, paresthesias, bradycardia, hypotension, cardiac arrhythmias (e.g., peaked T waves, widened QRS complex, ventricular fibrillation, asystole).
What to Do:
Immediate cessation of potassium infusion. Administer IV calcium gluconate (for cardiac protection), IV insulin with glucose, sodium bicarbonate, loop diuretics, cation-exchange resins (e.g., sodium polystyrene sulfonate), or hemodialysis depending on severity. Call 911 or Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) immediately.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, amiloride, triamterene)
- Patients with severe renal impairment, anuria, oliguria, or acute dehydration
Major Interactions
- ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril, enalapril)
- Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) (e.g., valsartan, losartan)
- Digoxin (hyperkalemia can reduce digoxin's therapeutic effect, while hypokalemia increases digoxin toxicity)
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
- Cyclosporine
- Tacrolimus
- Heparin
- Trimethoprim
Moderate Interactions
- Beta-blockers (non-selective)
- Pentamidine
- Succinylcholine (can cause acute hyperkalemia)
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Serum Potassium
Rationale: To assess baseline potassium status and guide initial dosing.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine)
Rationale: To assess kidney's ability to excrete potassium and determine risk of hyperkalemia.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Rationale: To assess for pre-existing cardiac abnormalities and establish baseline for monitoring cardiac effects of potassium.
Timing: Prior to initiation, especially if severe hypokalemia or rapid infusion is planned.
Routine Monitoring
Serum Potassium
Frequency: Every 2-4 hours during rapid correction, then daily or as clinically indicated.
Target: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L
Action Threshold: K > 5.0 mEq/L (stop infusion, assess for hyperkalemia), K < 3.5 mEq/L (continue/adjust infusion, assess for ongoing losses).
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Frequency: Continuous monitoring during rapid or high-dose infusions (e.g., >10 mEq/hour) or in patients with cardiac risk factors.
Target: Normal sinus rhythm, no signs of hyperkalemia (e.g., peaked T waves, widened QRS, prolonged PR).
Action Threshold: Development of peaked T waves, widened QRS, bradycardia, or other arrhythmias (stop infusion, treat hyperkalemia).
Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine)
Frequency: Daily or as clinically indicated, especially in patients with impaired renal function.
Target: Stable or improving renal function.
Action Threshold: Worsening renal function (re-evaluate potassium dosing).
Symptom Monitoring
- Muscle weakness
- Fatigue
- Paresthesias (numbness or tingling)
- Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
- Confusion
- Abdominal cramps
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Potassium is an essential nutrient. When administered appropriately to correct or prevent hypokalemia, it is generally considered safe during pregnancy. The benefits of correcting hypokalemia outweigh potential risks.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
No known risks associated with appropriate use.
Second Trimester:
No known risks associated with appropriate use.
Third Trimester:
No known risks associated with appropriate use.
Lactation
Potassium is an essential component of breast milk. Administration of potassium chloride to the mother is compatible with breastfeeding and is not expected to harm the infant.
Infant Risk:
None.
Pediatric Use
Dosing is weight-based and requires careful calculation and monitoring due to smaller fluid volumes and higher risk of hyperkalemia with administration errors. Infusion rates should be slow and controlled.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients are at increased risk of renal impairment, which can lead to reduced potassium excretion and an increased risk of hyperkalemia. Close monitoring of renal function and serum potassium levels is crucial. Start with lower doses and titrate carefully.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- ALWAYS dilute potassium chloride for intravenous administration. Never administer undiluted or by IV push, as this can be fatal.
- The maximum recommended peripheral IV infusion rate is typically 10 mEq/hour. Higher rates (up to 40 mEq/hour) require central venous access and continuous ECG monitoring.
- Rapid correction of hypokalemia can lead to hyperkalemia, especially in patients with impaired renal function.
- Magnesium deficiency often coexists with hypokalemia and must be corrected for potassium repletion to be effective.
- Monitor ECG for signs of hyperkalemia (e.g., peaked T waves, widened QRS complex, bradycardia) during infusion.
Alternative Therapies
- Dietary modifications to increase potassium intake (for mild hypokalemia or prevention)
Cost & Coverage
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 (Generic)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health problems persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure safe use, never share your medication with others, and do not take medication prescribed for someone else. Store all medications in a secure location, out of reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion. 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 by your pharmacist or healthcare provider. For guidance on the correct disposal method, consult your pharmacist, who can also inform you about potential drug take-back programs in your area. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, which your pharmacist can provide. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, 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 emergency medical attention. Be prepared to provide information about the medication taken, the amount, and the time of ingestion.