POTASIUM CHLORIDE Archives

POTASSIUM CHLORIDE

Overview

Potassium Chloride is a mineral supplement that helps the body maintain healthy potassium levels. Potassium is important for proper heart function, muscle movement, and nerve signals. When your potassium levels are too low, this medicine helps bring them back to normal.

Classification
Potassium Chloride is classified as an electrolyte replacement or mineral supplement. It helps restore the body’s natural salt balance, especially when potassium is lost due to certain medical conditions or medications.
Uses
Treats or prevents low potassium levels (also called hypokalemia)

Given when potassium is lost through vomiting, diarrhea, or diuretic (water pill) use

Helps support heart rhythm, muscle strength, and nerve functions

Sometimes used in patients on long-term medications like diuretics that lower potassium

How It Works
Potassium Chloride simply adds potassium back into your body. Your cells, nerves, and muscles — especially the heart — need a certain amount of potassium to work properly. This medicine keeps your potassium levels stable, so your body can function normally.
Dosage
As prescribed by your doctor.
Side effects
Some common or possible side effects include:
Nausea or upset stomach

Diarrhea

Gas or bloating

Mild stomach pain

More serious side effects (rare, but need medical attention):
Irregular heartbeat or chest pain

Muscle weakness or numbness

Severe stomach pain or vomiting

Tingling in hands, feet, or lips

Precautions
Take only as prescribed — too much potassium can be dangerous

Let your doctor know if you have kidney disease, heart problems, or dehydration

Should be taken with food or water to avoid stomach irritation

Swallow tablets whole (unless told otherwise) — do not crush or chew

Avoid using salt substitutes that contain potassium unless approved by your doctor