Hypokalemia; Prophylaxis

Potassium chloride, an electrolyte replenisher, participates in several physiological processes in the body including the transmission of nerve impulses, the maintenance of normal renal function and intracellular tonicity, and the contraction of skeletal, cardiac and smooth muscle

Absorption: Well absorbed from upper GI tract.
Distribution: Enters cells via active transport from extracellular fluid.
Excretion: Primarily urine; skin and feces (small amounts); most intestinal potassium reabsorbed.

hyperkalemia; risk of cardiac arrest

C (FDA)

Infant risk cannot be ruled out.

Dermatologic: Skin rash Endocrine & metabolic: Hyperkalemia Gastrointestinal: Abdominal pain, abdominal distress, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, vomiting

Serum potassium greater than 2.5 mEq/L: Infuse up to 10 mEq/hour IV in a concentration of up to 40 mEq/L or 200 mEq in a 24-hour period. Serum potassium less than 2 mEq/L and ECG changes with or without muscle paralysis: Infuse up to 40 mEq/hour IV or 400 mEq over 24 hours; give carefully under guidance of continuous ECG monitoring and frequent serum potassium level determination.