Treatment of hypokalemia

Electrolyte Supplement
Potassium is the major cation of intracellular fluid and is essential for the conduction of nerve impulses in heart, brain, and skeletal muscle; contraction of cardiac, skeletal and smooth muscles; maintenance of normal renal function, acid-base balance, carbohydrate metabolism, and gastric secretion.

1. Hypersensitivity to potassium chloride or any component of the formulation; sensitivity to potassium administration (eg, congenital paramyotonia, adynamia episodica hereditaria)
2. Clinically significant hyperkalemia; Addison disease (untreated); extensive tissue breakdown as in severe burns, acute dehydration, and heat cramps; hyperadrenalism associated with adrenogenital syndrome
3. Severe renal impairment
4. Concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics (Spironolactone, Triamterene, Amiloride) and potassium supplements

Potassium supplementation (that does not cause maternal hyperkalemia) would not be expected to cause adverse fetal events.

Potassium is present in breast milk. The normal content of potassium in human milk is ~13 mEq/L.
Supplementation (that does not cause maternal hyperkalemia) would not be expected to affect normal concentrations.

May cause GI upset and irritation (eg, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, discomfort) and lead to GI ulceration, bleeding, perforation, and/or obstruction.

Prevention of hypokalemia: 20mEq/day
Treatment of potassium depletion: 40-100mEq/day

Limited data available

1. Initiate therapy at the low end of the dosing range, particularly if on other medications known to increase potassium levels
2. Monitor potassium level frequently

There are no specific dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling; use with caution in patients with cirrhosis and start at the low end of dosage range.