Potassium chloride

Information About Potassium chloride

Uses of Potassium chloride

Potassium chloride is commonly used to treat potassium deficiency.

How Potassium chloride Works

Potassium chloride is an electrolyte replenisher of K ions. Potassium is required in conducting the nerve impulses, contracting cardiac, smooth and skeletal muscles, normal renal function, metabolism of carbohydrate and gastric secretions.

Side Effects of Potassium chloride

Hypersensitivity, Pain at injection site or phlebitis, Hyperkalemia, Periorbital, facial, and/or laryngeal oedema, Coughing, sneezing, and/or breathing difficulty.

Authorship

Written By

Dr Sri Viknarajan

MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Potassium chloride Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is not advisable to consume alcohol with potassium chloride. This is because alcohol may cause imbalances of electrolytes and thus, affecting potassium levels in body fluids.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Animal studies have demonstrated that there are risks to the fetus and there are no adequate human studies, however, potassium chloride may be used during pregnancy with close monitoring by the physician.

Lactation Limited Data

There is no known data on the usage of potassium chloride during breastfeeding, however, it may be used with caution and close monitoring.

Driving Generally Safe

Potassium chloride usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.

Kidney Use With Care

Potassium chloride should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment. It is important to measure the plasma potassium concentration at regular intervals to avoid hyperkalemia.

Liver Limited Data

It is recommended to use potassium chloride with caution in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment.