Potassium Chloride is indicated for the treatment of potassium deficiency in the following conditions:

• Replacement of potassium deficit
• Diuretic (potassium-losing)-induced hypokalaemia
• Hypokalaemia due to renal potassium wasting
• Hypokalaemia resulting from gastrointestinal losses
• Hypochloraemic alkalosis associated with hypokalaemia

Potassium Chloride is used in the management of hypokalaemia and other potassium depletion states. Potassium is the major intracellular cation in most body tissues and plays a vital role in several physiological functions. These include maintaining intracellular osmotic balance, transmission of nerve impulses, contraction of cardiac, skeletal and smooth muscles, and supporting normal renal function.

Oral dose: It should be taken with or after meals with plenty of fluid (water/fruit juice). Typical doses for the prevention of hypokalaemia may be upto 50 mmol (about 37.5 mL) daily by mouth. Oral treatment may be suitable in some cases of hypokalaemia and similar doses to those used for prevention may be adequate in mild potassium deficiency. However, higher doses may be needed in more severe deficiency.

Parenteral dose: Intravenous administration may be required in acute hypokalaemia. One ampoule (10 mL) i.e. 1.5 gm (20 mmol k+) may be added to 500 mL of sodium chloride or glucose intravenous infusion and given slowly over 2 to 3 hours with specialist advice and ECG monitoring in difficult cases. Repeated measurements of potassium are necessary to determine whether further infusions are required and to avoid the development of hyperkalaemia. This is especially liable to occur in renal impairment.

Concurrent use of potassium chloride with the following medicines may increase the risk of hyperkalaemia: angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, cyclosporin, NSAIDs, beta-blockers, heparin, digoxin, and potassium-sparing diuretics.

Potassium chloride is contraindicated in: Hypersensitivity to potassium administration (e.g. hyperkalaemic periodic paralysis, congenital paramyotonia), Severe renal failure (even without overt hyperkalaemia), Untreated Addison’s disease, Hyporeninaemic hypoaldosteronism, Acute dehydration, Existing hyperkalaemia Conditions with extensive cell destruction (e.g. severe burns). In metabolic acidosis, hypokalaemia should not be treated with potassium chloride.

Excess potassium administration may cause hyperkalaemia, with symptoms including paraesthesia of extremities, muscle weakness, paralysis, hypotension, cardiac arrhythmias, heart block, and cardiac arrest. Pain or phlebitis may occur during IV administration of potassium-containing solutions (≈30 mmol/L or more). Oral use may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal cramps.

As a general precaution, no medicines should be taken during the first three months of pregnancy unless necessary. The risk and benefit should be evaluated throughout pregnancy. Potassium salts are not contraindicated during breastfeeding.

Caution is required in patients with renal or adrenal insufficiency, cardiac disease, acute dehydration, heat cramps, or extensive tissue damage (e.g. severe burns), and in those receiving potassium-sparing diuretics. Excess intake of potassium-containing salt substitutes or supplements may lead to potassium accumulation, especially in renal impairment. Concomitant use of drugs that increase potassium levels should be carefully monitored. Treatment should be discontinued if severe nausea, vomiting, or abdominal discomfort occurs.

Pediatric use: No special precautions are required.

Electrolyte preparations, Oral electrolyte preparations

Store below 25°C in a dry place, protected from light. Keep out of reach of children.