Potassium Chloride 20meq Inj, 50ml
It is used to treat or prevent low potassium levels.
Drug Class
Electrolyte replacement
Pharmacologic Class
Mineral supplement
Pregnancy Category
C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Potassium chloride injection is a medicine given into a vein to replace potassium in your body. Potassium is a very important mineral that helps your nerves, muscles, and heart work properly. It is used when your potassium levels are too low, which can happen due to certain medical conditions, medications, or not getting enough potassium from your diet.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided to you. It is essential to follow the 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 what to do next.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided to you. It is essential to follow the 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 what to do next.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Follow your doctor's dietary recommendations regarding potassium intake.
- Report any symptoms of muscle weakness, tingling, or irregular heartbeat 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:
Hypokalemia (mild to moderate): 20-40 mEq IV over 2-4 hours. Severe hypokalemia: Up to 10-20 mEq/hour (max 40 mEq/hour) via central line, with continuous ECG monitoring. Always diluted.
Dose Range:
10 - 40 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
hypokalemia:
Individualized based on serum potassium levels and clinical status. Max concentration for peripheral infusion is typically 10 mEq/100 mL; higher concentrations require central venous administration.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
0.5-1 mEq/kg/dose IV over 1-2 hours, max 1 mEq/kg/hour. Max 3 mEq/kg/day. Always diluted.
Infant:
0.5-1 mEq/kg/dose IV over 1-2 hours, max 1 mEq/kg/hour. Max 3 mEq/kg/day. Always diluted.
Child:
0.5-1 mEq/kg/dose IV over 1-2 hours, max 1 mEq/kg/hour. Max 3 mEq/kg/day. Always diluted.
Adolescent:
Similar to adult dosing, 0.5-1 mEq/kg/dose IV over 1-2 hours, max 1 mEq/kg/hour. Max 3 mEq/kg/day. Always diluted.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
Use with caution, monitor serum potassium closely.
Moderate:
Significant dose reduction required, monitor serum potassium and renal function frequently. Often contraindicated if oliguric.
Severe:
Generally contraindicated due to high risk of hyperkalemia. If absolutely necessary, use extremely low doses with continuous ECG and potassium monitoring.
Dialysis:
Contraindicated in anuric patients. May be given post-dialysis if hypokalemic, but requires careful monitoring.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment needed.
Moderate:
No specific adjustment needed.
Severe:
No specific adjustment needed. However, patients with severe liver disease may have associated renal dysfunction requiring dose adjustment.
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. It is involved in many enzymatic reactions and plays a vital role in physiological processes such as nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction (including cardiac muscle), and renal function. Potassium chloride injection provides potassium ions to correct or prevent hypokalemia.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
100%
Tmax:
Not applicable (IV administration, immediate effect)
FoodEffect:
Not applicable (IV administration)
Distribution:
Vd:
Approximately 0.5 L/kg (reflects total body water)
ProteinBinding:
Not protein bound
CnssPenetration:
Limited
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (homeostatically regulated; depends on renal function and intake/output)
Clearance:
Primarily renal excretion, regulated by aldosterone and acid-base status.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (urine), small amounts in feces and sweat.
Unchanged:
100%
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Immediate (IV administration)
PeakEffect:
Depends on infusion rate and patient's potassium deficit; typically within minutes to hours during infusion.
DurationOfAction:
Variable, depends on renal function, ongoing losses, and dietary intake.
Confidence:
Medium
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
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 have any side effects that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for guidance.
Reporting 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
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
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 have any side effects that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for guidance.
Reporting 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:
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Muscle cramps or pain
- Difficulty breathing
- 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 symptoms you experienced.
If you have high potassium levels in your blood.
* If you are currently taking any of the following medications: amiloride, eplerenone, spironolactone, or triamterene.
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 medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins, as well as any health problems you may have. Your doctor and pharmacist need this information to determine whether it is safe for you to take this medication in combination with your other medications and health conditions.
Remember, do not 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 symptoms you experienced.
If you have high potassium levels in your blood.
* If you are currently taking any of the following medications: amiloride, eplerenone, spironolactone, or triamterene.
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 medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins, as well as any health problems you may have. Your doctor and pharmacist need this information to determine whether it is safe for you to take this medication in combination with your other medications and health conditions.
Remember, do not 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, 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 (high potassium levels)
- Muscle weakness leading to paralysis
- Paresthesias (tingling sensation)
- Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), including ventricular fibrillation and asystole (cardiac arrest)
What to Do:
Immediate medical attention is required. Treatment may include IV calcium gluconate (to stabilize cardiac membrane), IV insulin and glucose (to shift potassium into cells), sodium bicarbonate, loop diuretics, or hemodialysis. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control) or seek emergency medical care immediately.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, amiloride, triamterene) - increased risk of severe hyperkalemia.
- Eplerenone - increased risk of severe 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.
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) - may impair renal potassium excretion, increasing hyperkalemia risk.
- Cyclosporine, Tacrolimus - increased risk of hyperkalemia.
- Heparin - may cause hyperkalemia by inhibiting aldosterone secretion.
- Digoxin - hyperkalemia can reduce digoxin efficacy; hypokalemia increases digoxin toxicity.
Moderate Interactions
- Beta-blockers (non-selective) - may impair cellular potassium uptake, potentially increasing serum potassium.
- Succinylcholine - may cause a transient increase in serum potassium, especially in patients with pre-existing hyperkalemia or conditions predisposing to it.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Serum Potassium (K+)
Rationale: To determine the severity of hypokalemia and guide initial dosing.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine, GFR)
Rationale: To assess the ability to excrete potassium and guide dosing adjustments.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Rationale: To assess for cardiac manifestations of hypokalemia (e.g., U waves, flattened T waves, ST depression) and to establish a baseline for monitoring during infusion.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy, especially in severe hypokalemia.
Routine Monitoring
Serum Potassium (K+)
Frequency: Every 2-4 hours during rapid infusion; daily or as clinically indicated for maintenance.
Target: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L
Action Threshold: If K+ rises above 5.0 mEq/L or falls below target, adjust infusion rate or discontinue.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Frequency: Continuous monitoring during rapid IV infusion (rates >10 mEq/hr) or in patients with severe hypokalemia/cardiac disease.
Target: Normal sinus rhythm, absence of hyperkalemia signs (peaked T waves, widened QRS, prolonged PR).
Action Threshold: Any signs of hyperkalemia (e.g., peaked T waves, widened QRS) require immediate cessation of infusion and intervention.
Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine)
Frequency: Daily or as clinically indicated, especially in patients with impaired renal function.
Target: Stable within patient's baseline.
Action Threshold: Significant decline in renal function may necessitate dose reduction or discontinuation.
Fluid Balance (Intake/Output)
Frequency: Daily
Target: Balanced or as clinically appropriate.
Action Threshold: Significant fluid retention or dehydration may impact potassium levels.
Symptom Monitoring
- Muscle weakness
- Fatigue
- Paresthesias (tingling or numbness)
- Palpitations
- Bradycardia
- Irregular heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Confusion
- Flaccid paralysis
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Potassium chloride is considered generally safe for use during pregnancy when clinically indicated to correct hypokalemia. Potassium is a normal component of the body and is essential for physiological function. The benefits of correcting hypokalemia typically outweigh any potential risks.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
No known increased risk.
Second Trimester:
No known increased risk.
Third Trimester:
No known increased risk.
Lactation
Potassium is a normal component of breast milk. Administration of potassium chloride to a lactating mother is not expected to harm the breastfed infant. It is considered compatible with breastfeeding.
Infant Risk:
Low (L1 - Safest)
Pediatric Use
Dosing must be carefully calculated based on weight and severity of hypokalemia. Infusion rates should be slow, and continuous ECG monitoring is often recommended, especially in neonates and infants, due to their smaller circulating volume and higher risk of fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients are at increased risk of hyperkalemia due to age-related decline in renal function. Dosing should be initiated at the lower end of the dosing range, and renal function and serum potassium levels should be monitored more frequently. Concomitant medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors, ARBs, NSAIDs) that can increase potassium levels should be used with extreme caution.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Always dilute potassium chloride injection before intravenous administration. Never administer undiluted.
- The maximum recommended concentration for peripheral intravenous infusion is typically 10 mEq/100 mL. Higher concentrations (e.g., 20 mEq/100 mL or more) should be administered via a central venous catheter.
- The maximum recommended infusion rate is generally 10 mEq/hour for routine replacement, but up to 20-40 mEq/hour may be used in severe, life-threatening hypokalemia with continuous ECG monitoring and central line access.
- Rapid infusion can cause fatal hyperkalemia. Ensure proper dilution and controlled infusion rate.
- Monitor serum potassium levels and ECG frequently during and after potassium administration, especially in patients with renal impairment or those receiving high doses.
- Magnesium deficiency often coexists with hypokalemia and can make potassium repletion difficult. Consider checking and correcting magnesium levels if hypokalemia is refractory to potassium supplementation.
Alternative Therapies
- Oral potassium supplements (e.g., potassium chloride tablets, liquid)
- Dietary potassium intake (e.g., potassium-rich foods like bananas, oranges, potatoes, leafy greens)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Typically low cost per 50ml vial
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 a healthcare professional. If you are unsure about 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 it was taken to ensure timely and effective treatment.