Potassium Chloride 15meq ER Tabs
It is used to treat or prevent low potassium levels.
Drug Class
Electrolyte replacement
Pharmacologic Class
Mineral/Electrolyte
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Potassium chloride is a mineral that is found in many foods and is needed for several functions of your body, especially for your heart, muscles, and nerves to work properly. This medication is used to prevent or treat low potassium levels (hypokalemia) 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 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. Additionally, do not suck on the medication.
If you have difficulty swallowing, consult your doctor for guidance. Some products can be broken in half or mixed with 1/2 cup of water, but check with your doctor first to see if this is an option for your specific medication. If you can mix your medication with water, drink the mixture immediately. Then, rinse the cup with more water, drink, and repeat this process to ensure you take the entire dose. It is essential to swallow the mixture right away and not store it for later use.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature, protected from light, and in a dry place. Avoid storing it in a bathroom. Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the 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 disposing of your medication, consult your pharmacist. You may also want to check if there are 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 is 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 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. Additionally, do not suck on the medication.
If you have difficulty swallowing, consult your doctor for guidance. Some products can be broken in half or mixed with 1/2 cup of water, but check with your doctor first to see if this is an option for your specific medication. If you can mix your medication with water, drink the mixture immediately. Then, rinse the cup with more water, drink, and repeat this process to ensure you take the entire dose. It is essential to swallow the mixture right away and not store it for later use.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature, protected from light, and in a dry place. Avoid storing it in a bathroom. Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the 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 disposing of your medication, consult your pharmacist. You may also want to check if there are 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 is 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.
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 rapid release of potassium and irritation.
- Do not use salt substitutes that contain potassium unless advised by your doctor.
- Follow your doctor's recommendations for dietary potassium intake.
- Report any signs of stomach pain, black/tarry stools, or severe vomiting 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:
Prevention of hypokalemia: 20 mEq/day orally in 1-2 divided doses. Treatment of hypokalemia: 40-100 mEq/day orally in 2-5 divided doses. Max 100 mEq/day for chronic use.
Dose Range:
20 - 100 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
hypokalemia_prevention:
20 mEq/day
hypokalemia_treatment:
40-100 mEq/day
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established
Infant:
0.5-1 mEq/kg/day in 1-2 divided doses for prevention; 2-5 mEq/kg/day in 2-4 divided doses for treatment (max 1 mEq/kg/dose or 40 mEq/day)
Child:
0.5-1 mEq/kg/day in 1-2 divided doses for prevention; 2-5 mEq/kg/day in 2-4 divided doses for treatment (max 1 mEq/kg/dose or 40 mEq/day)
Adolescent:
Similar to adult dosing, but consider weight and severity. Max 100 mEq/day.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
Use with caution, monitor potassium levels closely.
Moderate:
Reduce dose, monitor potassium levels frequently. Consider contraindication if GFR < 30 mL/min.
Severe:
Contraindicated in severe renal impairment (e.g., GFR < 30 mL/min) due to high risk of hyperkalemia.
Dialysis:
Generally contraindicated. If absolutely necessary, administer with extreme caution and frequent monitoring, often after dialysis.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment needed.
Moderate:
No specific adjustment needed, but monitor renal function if liver disease is advanced.
Severe:
No specific adjustment needed, but monitor renal function if liver disease is advanced.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Potassium is the major intracellular cation and is essential for the maintenance of acid-base balance, isotonicity, and electrodynamic characteristics of the cell. It is involved in many enzymatic reactions and plays a vital role in the physiological processes of nerve impulse transmission, contraction of cardiac, skeletal, and smooth muscle, and maintenance of normal renal function. Potassium depletion can occur through renal excretion, gastrointestinal loss, or intracellular shift.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Approximately 90% (well absorbed)
Tmax:
Approximately 4-6 hours (for extended-release formulations)
FoodEffect:
Food may delay absorption but generally enhances tolerability and reduces GI upset. Should be taken with food or immediately after meals.
Distribution:
Vd:
Approximately 0.5 L/kg (reflects total body water)
ProteinBinding:
Not protein bound
CnssPenetration:
Limited
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (homeostatically regulated, not eliminated via typical drug kinetics)
Clearance:
Primarily renal excretion, regulated by aldosterone and acid-base status.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (urine)
Unchanged:
100%
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Hours (for extended-release formulations)
PeakEffect:
Approximately 4-6 hours (for extended-release formulations)
DurationOfAction:
Approximately 8-12 hours (for extended-release formulations)
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 experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:
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. Many people experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you experience any of the following side effects, or if they bother you or 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 a comprehensive list of all 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.
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:
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. Many people experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you experience any of the following side effects, or if they bother you or 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 a comprehensive list of all 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
- Vomiting
- Black, tarry, or bloody stools (signs of GI bleeding)
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
- Slow, fast, or irregular heartbeat
- Muscle weakness or paralysis
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. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
If you have high potassium levels in your blood.
If you are currently taking any of the following medications: Amiloride, Eplerenone, Spironolactone, or Triamterene.
If you have any of the following health conditions:
+ A bowel blockage or obstruction
+ A slow-moving gastrointestinal (GI) tract
+ Slow stomach emptying or delayed gastric clearing
+ Heart disease accompanied by esophageal problems
+ If you are taking anticholinergic medications, such as Ipratropium or Oxybutynin. If you are unsure whether any of your medications are anticholinergics, consult your doctor.
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all potential interactions. To ensure your safety, it is crucial to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications you are taking, including:
Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications
Natural products
* Vitamins
Additionally, share any health problems you have with your doctor. It is vital to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dosage 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. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
If you have high potassium levels in your blood.
If you are currently taking any of the following medications: Amiloride, Eplerenone, Spironolactone, or Triamterene.
If you have any of the following health conditions:
+ A bowel blockage or obstruction
+ A slow-moving gastrointestinal (GI) tract
+ Slow stomach emptying or delayed gastric clearing
+ Heart disease accompanied by esophageal problems
+ If you are taking anticholinergic medications, such as Ipratropium or Oxybutynin. If you are unsure whether any of your medications are anticholinergics, consult your doctor.
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all potential interactions. To ensure your safety, it is crucial to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications you are taking, including:
Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications
Natural products
* Vitamins
Additionally, share any health problems you have with your doctor. It is vital to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change 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, it is crucial to adhere to the prescribed dosage and not exceed the amount recommended by your doctor. Taking more than the prescribed dose can increase your chance of experiencing severe side effects.
If you follow a low-sodium diet or use a salt substitute, consult with your doctor to discuss any potential interactions. Additionally, if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. You and your doctor will need to carefully weigh the benefits and risks of this medication to 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. Taking more than the prescribed dose can increase your chance of experiencing severe side effects.
If you follow a low-sodium diet or use a salt substitute, consult with your doctor to discuss any potential interactions. Additionally, if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. You and your doctor will need to carefully weigh the benefits and risks of this medication to you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Hyperkalemia (high potassium levels)
- Muscle weakness
- Paresthesias (tingling/numbness)
- Flaccid paralysis
- Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Cardiac arrhythmias (e.g., peaked T waves, widened QRS, ventricular fibrillation, asystole)
What to Do:
Seek immediate medical attention or call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Treatment involves discontinuing potassium, administering calcium gluconate (for cardiac protection), insulin/glucose (to shift potassium intracellularly), sodium bicarbonate, and/or diuretics. Hemodialysis may be necessary in severe cases.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride)
- Eplerenone
- Patients with hyperkalemia
Major Interactions
- ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril, enalapril)
- Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) (e.g., losartan, valsartan)
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) - especially in patients with renal impairment
- Cyclosporine
- Tacrolimus
- Salt substitutes containing potassium chloride
Moderate Interactions
- Digoxin (hypokalemia increases digoxin toxicity, but potassium supplementation can reduce it; hyperkalemia can reduce digoxin efficacy)
- Beta-blockers (non-selective, can impair cellular potassium uptake)
- Heparin (can cause hypoaldosteronism)
- Trimethoprim (component of Bactrim)
Minor Interactions
- Not many direct minor interactions; focus is on hyperkalemia risk.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Serum Potassium
Rationale: To establish baseline level and identify pre-existing hyperkalemia or severe hypokalemia.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Renal Function (BUN, Serum Creatinine)
Rationale: To assess kidney function, as potassium is primarily renally excreted and impairment increases hyperkalemia risk.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Rationale: To assess for cardiac manifestations of hypokalemia or pre-existing conduction abnormalities, especially in patients with cardiac disease or on digoxin.
Timing: Prior to initiation, especially if severe hypokalemia or cardiac risk factors.
Routine Monitoring
Serum Potassium
Frequency: Initially daily or every 2-3 days until stable, then weekly to monthly depending on dose and patient stability.
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 intervention for hyperkalemia).
Renal Function (BUN, Serum Creatinine)
Frequency: Periodically (e.g., every 3-6 months) or more frequently if renal function changes or interacting drugs are added.
Target: Within normal limits for age/sex
Action Threshold: Significant increase in BUN/Cr (indicates worsening renal function, requires re-evaluation of potassium dose).
ECG
Frequency: As clinically indicated, especially if potassium levels are outside target range or symptoms of hyper/hypokalemia develop.
Target: Normal sinus rhythm, no signs of hyperkalemia (peaked T waves, widened QRS, prolonged PR)
Action Threshold: ECG changes suggestive of hyperkalemia (requires immediate intervention).
Symptom Monitoring
- Muscle weakness
- Fatigue
- Paresthesias (tingling/numbness)
- Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal discomfort
- Diarrhea
- Black, tarry stools (GI bleeding from ulceration)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Potassium is an essential electrolyte. If hypokalemia occurs during pregnancy, potassium supplementation is generally considered safe and necessary to maintain maternal and fetal health. Use only if clearly needed and under medical supervision.
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 naturally present in breast milk. Supplementation with potassium chloride is generally considered safe during breastfeeding as it is an essential electrolyte and unlikely to cause adverse effects in the infant at therapeutic doses.
Infant Risk:
Low risk.
Pediatric Use
Dosing is weight-based and requires careful calculation and monitoring due to the narrow therapeutic index and potential for hyperkalemia. Extended-release formulations may not be suitable for very young children due to swallowing difficulties.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients are at increased risk for renal impairment, which can lead to potassium accumulation and hyperkalemia. Close monitoring of renal function and serum potassium levels is essential. Start with lower doses and titrate carefully.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Always take extended-release potassium chloride tablets with a full glass of water and with or immediately after meals to minimize gastrointestinal irritation and ulceration.
- Do not crush, chew, or suck on extended-release tablets, as this can lead to a rapid release of potassium, causing hyperkalemia and local GI irritation.
- Educate patients about symptoms of hyperkalemia (e.g., muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat) and GI bleeding (e.g., black, tarry stools) and to seek immediate medical attention if they occur.
- Regular monitoring of serum potassium and renal function is crucial, especially when initiating therapy, adjusting doses, or adding interacting medications.
- Avoid concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and salt substitutes unless potassium levels are closely monitored and deemed necessary.
Alternative Therapies
- Potassium chloride liquid/solution
- Potassium chloride powder for oral solution
- Potassium gluconate (less potassium per dose)
- Dietary potassium intake (e.g., bananas, oranges, potatoes, leafy greens)
- Intravenous potassium chloride (for severe or symptomatic hypokalemia)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$10 - $50 per 30 tablets (15 mEq ER)
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or Tier 2 (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's a good idea to check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't 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 detailed information about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.