Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: POTASSIUM CHLORIDE TABLETS EXTENDED RELEASE - ORAL (poh-TASS-ee-um KLOR-ide)
BRAND NAME(S): K-Dur, Klor-Con
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Potassium supplements are used to prevent or treat low potassium blood levels caused by diuretics (water pills), illnesses or poor diet. Also used for certain cases of high blood pressure.
HOW TO USE: Take this by mouth as directed. You may swallow the tablets whole or, if you have trouble swallowing tablets, dissolve them in a glass of cool water. It may take a few minutes to dissolve. After the tablet has dissolved, stir for a minute, swirl the glass and drink. Fill the glass with water (8oz or 240ml) and drink it to assure all the medication is taken (unless your doctor directs you otherwise). Take this medication with meals to prevent stomach upset. Do not take on an empty stomach. If swallowing the tablet whole, do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking it.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, stomach upset, vomiting or diarrhea may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to this. If these symptoms continue or become severe, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: breathing trouble, chest pain, an irregular heartbeat, dark or tarry stools, confusion, tingling of the hands or feet, stomach pain. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking this, tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, heart disease, a history of ulcers, allergies. Symptoms of low potassium include fatigue, weakness, muscle twitching or cramps, dry mouth and excessive thirst. Symptoms of high potassium levels include irregular heartbeat or muscle weakness. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Electrolytes - Read about blood electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicorbonate) and the effects of electrolyte imbalances like kidney failure, low blood pressure, hypokalemia, and hyperkalemia.
- Low Potassium (Hypokalemia) - earn about low potassium (hypokalemia) causes like vomiting, diarrhea, medications, laxatives, diuretics, renal disease and more. Symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment information is provided.
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