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Generic Name: potassium chloride

A minerals and electrolyte - It is found in many foods and is normally supplied by a well balanced d... more

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What is this medicine?

POTASSIUM (poe TASS i um) is a natural salt that is important for the heart, muscles, and nerves. It is found in many foods and is normally supplied by a well balanced diet. This medicine is used to treat low potassium.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

dehydration
diabetes
irregular heartbeat
kidney disease
stomach ulcers or other stomach problems
an unusual or allergic reaction to potassium salts, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take with food. Do not suck on, crush, or chew this medicine. If you have difficulty swallowing, ask the pharmacist how to take. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

eplerenone
sodium polystyrene sulfonate

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

medicines for blood pressure or heart disease like lisinopril, losartan, quinapril, valsartan
medicines for cold or allergies
medicines for inflammation like ibuprofen, indomethacin
medicines for Parkinson's disease
medicines for the stomach like metoclopramide, dicyclomine, glycopyrrolate
some diuretics

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. You will need lab work done regularly.

You may need to be on a special diet while taking this medicine. Ask your doctor.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
black, tarry stools
heartburn
irregular heartbeat
numbness or tingling in hands or feet
pain when swallowing
unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

diarrhea
nausea
stomach gas
vomiting

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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All visitors to AARP.org should seek expert medical care and consult their own physicians for any specific health issues. Read this disclaimer in its entirety.

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Note: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have question about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.

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