Potassium (Supplements) (By Mouth)

Potassium (poe-TAS-ee-um)

Treats potassium loss from the body. This is caused either by taking drugs such as diuretics (water pills) or from certain diseases.

Brand Name(s):

Klor-Con M20, Klor-Con 10, Klor-Con M10, Klor-Con 8, K-Dur 20, K-Dur 10, K-Tab, Klor-Con M15, Klotrix, K-10, Kaon-CL 10, K-8, K-Glucon, Potassium '99', Glu-K
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to any type of medicine containing potassium or if you have severe kidney disease.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Powder, Long Acting Tablet, Long Acting Capsule

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.
• Take with food or right after eating.
• Take the powder only after dissolving in one-half glass (4 ounces) of water or juice.
• Swallow the extended-release tablet or extended-release capsule whole with full glass of water; do not chew or crush.
• You may notice something that looks like a tablet in your stool. This is normal.

If a dose is missed:

• Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take your medicine and skip the missed dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time, unless ordered by your doctor.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
• Keep all medicine away from children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking Midamor®, Aldactone®, Dyazide®, or any medicine that has potassium in it.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you using salt substitutes.
• Follow the diet ordered by your doctor.
• Many types of foods also contain potassium (bananas, fresh fruits and vegetables and fresh meats) and you should not eat too much of them while using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• You should not use more of this medicine than ordered by your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Severe stomach pain or vomiting
• Fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
• Trouble breathing
• Red or black stools with diarrhea
• Numbness or tingling of hands or feet
• Excessive weakness or heaviness of legs

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Mild nausea and vomiting
• Stomach discomfort
• Loose stools

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.