Potassium Cl 2meq/ml Inj 50ml
It is used to treat or prevent low potassium levels.
Drug Class
Electrolyte Supplement
Pharmacologic Class
Electrolyte Replacement
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Potassium chloride is a medicine given to you through a vein (intravenously) to replace potassium in your body. Potassium is a very important mineral that helps your heart, muscles, and nerves work properly. It's used when your potassium levels are too low, which can happen due to certain medications, illnesses, or not getting enough potassium in 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 method.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to receive guidance on the next steps to take.
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 method.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to receive guidance on the next steps to take.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Follow your doctor's dietary recommendations regarding potassium intake, especially if you have ongoing issues with potassium levels.
- Report any new medications or supplements you are taking to your healthcare provider, as they can affect potassium levels.
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. For mild hypokalemia, 20-40 mEq orally or IV over 2-4 hours. For severe hypokalemia, up to 10-20 mEq/hour IV, diluted to a maximum concentration of 40 mEq/L (peripheral line) or 80 mEq/L (central line). Max daily dose typically 200-400 mEq.
Dose Range:
10 - 200 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
hypokalemia_mild:
20-40 mEq IV over 2-4 hours
hypokalemia_moderate_severe:
10-20 mEq/hour IV, diluted. Max 200-400 mEq/day.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
0.5-1 mEq/kg/dose IV over 1-2 hours, max 1 mEq/kg/hour. Max 3 mEq/kg/day.
Infant:
0.5-1 mEq/kg/dose IV over 1-2 hours, max 1 mEq/kg/hour. Max 3 mEq/kg/day.
Child:
0.5-1 mEq/kg/dose IV over 1-2 hours, max 1 mEq/kg/hour. Max 3 mEq/kg/day.
Adolescent:
Similar to adult dosing, individualized based on weight and potassium deficit.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
Monitor closely; dose adjustment usually not required unless hyperkalemia develops.
Moderate:
Use with caution; consider dose reduction and slower infusion rates. Frequent monitoring of serum potassium is essential.
Severe:
Contraindicated in severe renal impairment (e.g., anuria, oliguria) due to high risk of hyperkalemia. If absolutely necessary, use extremely low doses with continuous ECG and potassium monitoring.
Dialysis:
Generally contraindicated in patients on dialysis unless specifically indicated for severe hypokalemia and under strict monitoring. Dialysis can remove potassium.
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, muscle contraction (including cardiac muscle), and maintenance of normal renal function. Potassium chloride provides potassium ions to correct or prevent hypokalemia.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
100% (IV)
Tmax:
Rapid (IV infusion)
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for IV
Distribution:
Vd:
Approximately 0.5 L/kg (total body water)
ProteinBinding:
Negligible
CnssPenetration:
Limited
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Variable; depends on renal function and potassium balance (typically 2-4 hours in normal renal function)
Clearance:
Primarily renal excretion
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (glomerular filtration and tubular secretion)
Unchanged:
Nearly 100%
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Minutes (IV)
PeakEffect:
Within minutes to hours, depending on infusion rate and deficit
DurationOfAction:
Dependent on renal function and ongoing potassium losses; typically hours after infusion cessation
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
As with any medication, you may experience side effects. While many people have no side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience side effects that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for guidance.
Reporting Side Effects
If you have questions or concerns about side effects, don't hesitate to reach out to 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
As with any medication, you may experience side effects. While many people have no side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience side effects that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for guidance.
Reporting Side Effects
If you have questions or concerns about side effects, don't hesitate to reach out to 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 your hands or feet
- Muscle cramps or pain
- Feeling like your heart is racing or skipping beats
- Shortness of breath
- 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:
Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications
Natural products
Vitamins
* Health problems
Your doctor and pharmacist need this information to assess whether it is safe for you 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:
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:
Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications
Natural products
Vitamins
* Health problems
Your doctor and pharmacist need this information to assess whether it is safe for you 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.
Certain formulations of this medication are not suitable for children, so it is crucial to consult with your doctor if you are considering administering it to a child.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor immediately. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of taking this medication to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.
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.
Certain formulations of this medication are not suitable for children, so it is crucial to consult with your doctor if you are considering administering it to a child.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor immediately. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of taking this medication to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Muscle weakness (flaccid paralysis)
- Paresthesias (tingling, numbness)
- Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Cardiac arrhythmias (e.g., peaked T waves, widened QRS, ventricular fibrillation, asystole)
- Cardiac arrest
What to Do:
Immediate medical attention is required. Treatment involves stopping potassium administration, administering calcium gluconate (to stabilize cardiac membranes), insulin and glucose (to shift potassium into cells), sodium bicarbonate, and/or loop diuretics. Hemodialysis may be necessary in severe cases, especially with renal failure. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride)
- ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril, enalapril) in patients with renal impairment or other risk factors for hyperkalemia
- Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs) (e.g., valsartan, losartan) in patients with renal impairment or other risk factors for hyperkalemia
- Aliskiren in patients with renal impairment or other risk factors for hyperkalemia
Major Interactions
- Digoxin (hyperkalemia can reduce digoxin's therapeutic effect and increase risk of toxicity)
- Cyclosporine (increased risk of hyperkalemia)
- Tacrolimus (increased risk of hyperkalemia)
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) (may impair renal potassium excretion, increasing hyperkalemia risk)
- Beta-blockers (may reduce cellular potassium uptake, increasing serum potassium)
Moderate Interactions
- Heparin (may cause hypoaldosteronism, leading to hyperkalemia)
- Trimethoprim (potassium-sparing effect)
- Succinylcholine (may cause acute increase in serum potassium, especially in patients with neuromuscular disease or burns)
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Serum Potassium (K+)
Rationale: To determine baseline potassium status and guide initial dosing.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Renal Function (BUN, Serum Creatinine)
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 manifestations of hypokalemia or baseline cardiac abnormalities.
Timing: Prior to initiation, especially in severe hypokalemia or cardiac history.
Other Electrolytes (Magnesium, Calcium, Phosphate)
Rationale: Hypokalemia often coexists with other electrolyte imbalances, especially hypomagnesemia, which can hinder potassium repletion.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Routine Monitoring
Serum Potassium (K+)
Frequency: Every 2-4 hours during rapid repletion; then daily or as clinically indicated.
Target: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L
Action Threshold: Below 3.5 mEq/L (continue repletion); Above 5.0 mEq/L (hold/reduce dose, investigate cause, consider treatment for hyperkalemia).
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Frequency: Continuous monitoring during rapid IV infusion or in severe hypokalemia/hyperkalemia; otherwise, daily or as clinically indicated.
Target: Normal sinus rhythm, absence of peaked T waves, widened QRS, or prolonged PR interval.
Action Threshold: Development of peaked T waves, widened QRS, prolonged PR interval, or arrhythmias (indicates hyperkalemia); U waves, T wave flattening/inversion, ST depression (indicates hypokalemia).
Fluid Balance (Intake/Output)
Frequency: Every 4-8 hours.
Target: Appropriate balance for patient's condition.
Action Threshold: Significant fluid overload or dehydration.
Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine)
Frequency: Daily or as clinically indicated, especially if renal function is impaired or changing.
Target: Stable within patient's baseline.
Action Threshold: Significant worsening of renal function.
Symptom Monitoring
- Muscle weakness
- Fatigue
- Paresthesias (tingling, numbness)
- Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort
- Confusion or altered mental status
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Potassium is an essential electrolyte. Potassium chloride is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy when indicated for the treatment of hypokalemia. Close monitoring of serum potassium levels is important.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
No known specific risks.
Second Trimester:
No known specific risks.
Third Trimester:
No known specific risks.
Lactation
Potassium is a normal component of breast milk. Administration of potassium chloride to a lactating mother is generally considered compatible with 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 to avoid overdose. Infusion rates and concentrations must be strictly adhered to. Close monitoring of serum potassium and ECG is crucial due to higher risk of fluid overload and electrolyte imbalances in this population.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients may have age-related decline in renal function, increasing their susceptibility to hyperkalemia. Close monitoring of serum potassium and renal function is essential. Lower doses or slower infusion rates may be necessary.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- ALWAYS dilute potassium chloride before intravenous administration. Never administer undiluted potassium chloride directly into a vein.
- The maximum recommended concentration for peripheral IV infusion is typically 40 mEq/L. Higher concentrations (up to 80 mEq/L) may be used via a central venous line with continuous cardiac monitoring.
- The maximum recommended infusion rate is generally 10 mEq/hour in adults, unless in critical care settings with continuous ECG monitoring for severe, life-threatening hypokalemia (up to 20 mEq/hour).
- Ensure adequate renal function before administering potassium, as impaired kidneys cannot excrete excess potassium, leading to hyperkalemia.
- Correct hypomagnesemia concurrently with hypokalemia, as magnesium is required for cellular potassium uptake and retention.
- Monitor serum potassium levels frequently during and after potassium repletion, especially in patients with renal impairment or those receiving high doses.
- Educate patients and caregivers about symptoms of both hypokalemia and hyperkalemia.
Alternative Therapies
- Oral potassium supplements (e.g., potassium chloride tablets, liquid solutions) for mild to moderate hypokalemia or maintenance.
- Dietary potassium intake (e.g., bananas, oranges, potatoes, leafy greens) for prevention or mild cases.
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Varies widely by supplier, volume, and concentration (e.g., $5 - $50+ per 50ml vial of 2mEq/ml) 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. Unless instructed otherwise, do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain. 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 occurred.