Potassium Chloride 20meq Powder Pkt
It is used to treat or prevent low potassium levels.
Drug Class
Electrolyte, Potassium Supplement
Pharmacologic Class
Electrolyte
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Potassium chloride is a medicine that helps replace potassium in your body. Potassium is a very important mineral needed for your heart, muscles, and nerves to work properly. You might need this if your potassium levels are too low, often due to certain medications (like diuretics), vomiting, or diarrhea.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Take your medication with or immediately after a meal. As directed, mix the medication with water before drinking, and sip it slowly. It's essential to drink the mixture right away and not save it for later use.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Keep your medication at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Store it in a dry place, avoiding bathrooms and areas where it may be exposed to freezing temperatures. Ensure that all medications are kept 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 use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Take your medication with or immediately after a meal. As directed, mix the medication with water before drinking, and sip it slowly. It's essential to drink the mixture right away and not save it for later use.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Keep your medication at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Store it in a dry place, avoiding bathrooms and areas where it may be exposed to freezing temperatures. Ensure that all medications are kept 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 with food or immediately after a meal to reduce stomach upset.
- Mix the powder completely with at least 4 ounces (120 mL) of water or juice before drinking.
- Do not chew or crush extended-release tablets if prescribed in that form.
- Avoid salt substitutes that contain potassium unless advised by your doctor.
- Report any signs of hyperkalemia (muscle weakness, slow or irregular heartbeat, tingling) immediately.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Prevention of hypokalemia: 20 mEq orally once daily. Treatment of hypokalemia: 40-100 mEq orally daily in 2-5 divided doses.
Dose Range:
20 - 100 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
hypokalemia_prevention:
20 mEq orally once daily
hypokalemia_treatment_mild_moderate:
40-100 mEq orally daily in 2-5 divided doses
hypokalemia_treatment_severe:
Higher doses may be required, but typically IV administration is preferred for severe cases.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (use with extreme caution, often IV in hospital setting)
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 or 40 mEq/day).
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 or 40 mEq/day).
Adolescent:
Prevention: 20 mEq orally once daily. Treatment: 40-100 mEq orally daily in 2-5 divided doses.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
Use with caution; monitor serum potassium closely.
Moderate:
Significant dose reduction required; monitor serum potassium and renal function frequently. May be contraindicated if hyperkalemia risk is high.
Severe:
Contraindicated due to high risk of hyperkalemia.
Dialysis:
Generally contraindicated in anuric patients; may be used cautiously in patients on dialysis with documented hypokalemia, under strict monitoring.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment needed.
Moderate:
No specific adjustment needed.
Severe:
No specific adjustment needed.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Potassium is the principal intracellular cation and is essential for the maintenance of acid-base balance, isotonicity, and electrodynamic characteristics of the cell. It is involved in nerve impulse transmission, contraction of cardiac, skeletal, and smooth muscle, and maintenance of normal renal function. Oral potassium chloride supplements are used to replenish potassium deficits.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Approximately 90% (well absorbed from the GI tract)
Tmax:
Approximately 1-2 hours (for oral solutions/powders)
FoodEffect:
Food may delay absorption but does not significantly affect the extent of absorption; taking with food can reduce GI irritation.
Distribution:
Vd:
Approximately 0.5 L/kg (reflects total body water)
ProteinBinding:
Not protein bound
CnssPenetration:
Limited (does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (potassium is an electrolyte, not metabolized; half-life reflects renal excretion rate which varies with renal function)
Clearance:
Primarily renal clearance, varies with glomerular filtration rate and tubular reabsorption/secretion.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (approximately 90%), fecal (approximately 10%), sweat (small amounts).
Unchanged:
100%
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within minutes to hours (for electrolyte correction)
PeakEffect:
Approximately 1-2 hours (for serum concentration)
DurationOfAction:
Dependent on renal function and ongoing potassium losses; typically maintains levels for several hours.
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
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While 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 unusual 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.
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
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While 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 unusual 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:
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
- Slow, fast, or irregular heartbeat
- Muscle cramps or pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
- Black, tarry, or bloody stools (rare, but indicates GI irritation/ulceration)
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 and its symptoms.
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. Therefore, it is crucial to disclose all of your medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins, to your doctor and pharmacist. This will help ensure that it is safe for you to take this medication in conjunction with your other treatments and health conditions.
Remember, do not start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor to confirm that 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 and its symptoms.
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. Therefore, it is crucial to disclose all of your medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins, to your doctor and pharmacist. This will help ensure that it is safe for you to take this medication in conjunction with your other treatments and health conditions.
Remember, do not start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor to confirm that 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 dosage prescribed by your doctor. Taking more than the recommended amount can increase the likelihood of 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 weigh the benefits and risks of this medication to both 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 the likelihood of 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 weigh the benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby to make an informed decision.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Hyperkalemia (serum K+ > 5.5 mEq/L)
- Muscle weakness, flaccid paralysis
- Paresthesias (tingling, numbness)
- Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Cardiac arrhythmias (e.g., peaked T waves, widened QRS complex, ventricular fibrillation, asystole)
- Confusion
What to Do:
Seek immediate medical attention or call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Treatment involves discontinuing potassium, administering calcium gluconate (for cardiac stability), insulin/glucose, sodium bicarbonate, and/or potassium-binding resins. Dialysis may be necessary in severe cases.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride) in patients with impaired renal function or severe heart failure
- Eplerenone (in patients with impaired renal function or diabetes with microalbuminuria)
Major Interactions
- ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril, enalapril)
- Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) (e.g., valsartan, losartan)
- Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) - especially in patients with renal impairment
- Cyclosporine
- Tacrolimus
- Digoxin (hyperkalemia can antagonize digoxin effects, hypokalemia potentiates toxicity)
Moderate Interactions
- Beta-blockers (may reduce potassium excretion)
- Heparin (may cause hypoaldosteronism and hyperkalemia)
- Trimethoprim (component of Bactrim, acts as a potassium-sparing diuretic)
- Certain laxatives (chronic use can cause hypokalemia, requiring more potassium)
Minor Interactions
- Not applicable (most interactions are significant due to hyperkalemia risk)
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Serum Potassium (K+)
Rationale: To establish baseline potassium level and guide initial dosing.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine, eGFR)
Rationale: To assess kidney's ability to excrete potassium, as impaired renal function significantly increases hyperkalemia risk.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Rationale: To assess for cardiac abnormalities related to hypokalemia or baseline cardiac status, especially in patients with pre-existing cardiac disease or severe hypokalemia.
Timing: Prior to initiation, especially if severe hypokalemia or cardiac risk factors.
Routine Monitoring
Serum Potassium (K+)
Frequency: Daily initially for severe hypokalemia, then every 1-3 days, then weekly to monthly depending on stability and underlying condition.
Target: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L
Action Threshold: Below 3.5 mEq/L (increase dose/frequency); Above 5.0 mEq/L (reduce dose/hold, investigate cause); Above 5.5 mEq/L (urgent intervention for hyperkalemia).
Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine)
Frequency: Periodically, especially if renal function is unstable or if co-administered with nephrotoxic drugs.
Target: Within normal limits for patient's age/baseline
Action Threshold: Significant increase in creatinine or decrease in eGFR (re-evaluate potassium dosing).
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Frequency: As clinically indicated, especially if serum potassium is rapidly changing or if symptoms of hyperkalemia/hypokalemia develop.
Target: Normal sinus rhythm, absence of T wave peaking/QRS widening (hyperkalemia) or U waves/flattened T waves (hypokalemia).
Action Threshold: ECG changes consistent with hyperkalemia (e.g., peaked T waves, widened QRS, PR prolongation) require immediate intervention.
Symptom Monitoring
- Symptoms of hyperkalemia: muscle weakness, fatigue, paresthesias, bradycardia, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath.
- Symptoms of hypokalemia: muscle weakness, cramps, fatigue, constipation, palpitations, irregular heartbeat.
- Gastrointestinal upset: nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea.
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Potassium is an essential electrolyte. If hypokalemia is present during pregnancy, potassium chloride supplementation is generally considered safe and necessary to maintain maternal and fetal health. Use should be guided by clinical need and serum potassium levels.
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 to correct maternal hypokalemia is generally considered safe during breastfeeding and is unlikely to cause adverse effects in the breastfed infant.
Infant Risk:
Low risk.
Pediatric Use
Dosing is weight-based and requires careful calculation to avoid overdose. Renal function must be assessed. Oral solutions or powders are often preferred for ease of administration and dose titration. 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 potential for polypharmacy (e.g., ACE inhibitors, ARBs, NSAIDs, potassium-sparing diuretics). Close monitoring of serum potassium and renal function is crucial. Lower starting doses and slower titration may be warranted.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Always take oral potassium chloride with food or immediately after a meal to minimize gastrointestinal irritation (nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort).
- Ensure the powder is fully dissolved in at least 4 ounces of water or juice before administration to prevent esophageal irritation or ulceration.
- Regular monitoring of serum potassium levels and renal function is critical, especially in patients with impaired renal function, heart failure, or those on concomitant medications that affect potassium levels (e.g., ACE inhibitors, ARBs, potassium-sparing diuretics).
- Educate patients on the symptoms of hyperkalemia (muscle weakness, fatigue, irregular heartbeat) and to seek immediate medical attention if they occur.
- Avoid the use of salt substitutes containing potassium while on potassium chloride supplementation, unless specifically advised by a healthcare provider.
Alternative Therapies
- Dietary potassium intake (e.g., bananas, oranges, potatoes, leafy greens) for mild hypokalemia or prevention.
- Intravenous potassium chloride for severe or symptomatic hypokalemia, or when oral administration is not feasible.
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$10 - $50 per 30 packets (20 mEq)
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 promptly. To ensure safe and effective treatment, 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 consult with your pharmacist. 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 detailed information about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.