GENERIC NAME: POTASSIUM SUPPLEMENTS - ORAL (poh-TASS-ee-um)
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to prevent or treat low potassium blood levels caused by "water pills" (diuretics) or poor diet.
HOW TO USE: To prevent stomach upset, take each dose with food or immediately after a meal. Sustained-release capsules and tablets must be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew them as side effects may be increased. Take tablets or capsules with a full glass (8 oz or 240 ml) of water, unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking the tablet or capsule. The liquid and powder forms must be diluted in a full glass of cold water or juice before taking. Drink slowly.
SIDE EFFECTS: May cause diarrhea, stomach upset, nausea or vomiting the first few days as your body adjusts to the medicine. Inform your doctor if you develop: breathing difficulties, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, confusion, tingling of the hands or feet, muscle weakness. If using potassium tablets or capsules, notify your doctor if the following effects occur: stomach pain, black stools. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Be sure your doctor knows your complete medical history especially of: kidney problems, heart disease, problems with digestion, any allergies. This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Potassium supplements are not known to appear in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use (both prescription and nonprescription) especially if you take: "water pills" (diuretics such as furosemide or amiloride), ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril), digoxin, salt substitutes containing potassium. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
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.
- 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.
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