Ulcerative colitis
Potassium Chloride is indicated in-
- Replacement of potassium deficit
- Diuretic (Potassium losing)-induced hypokalaemia
- Hypokalaemia from renal potassium wasting
- Hypokalaemia from gastrointestinal losses
- Hypochloraemic alkalosis associated with hypokalaemia
Potassium Chloride is used for the treatment of hypokalaemia and of potassium deficiency states. Potassium ion is the principal intracellular cation of most body tissues. It participates in a number of essential physiological processes, including the maintenance of intracellular tonicity, the transmission of nerve impulses, the contraction of cardiac, skeletal and smooth muscle and the maintenance of normal renal function.
Combined treatment with the following increase the risk of hyperkalaemia: Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, cyclosporin, NSAIDs, beta-blockers, heparin, digoxin, potassium-sparing diuretics.
Excessive administration of potassium leads to development of hyperkalaemia, the symptoms of which include paraesthesia of the extremitis, muscle weakness, paralysis, hypotension, cardiac arrhythmias, heart block and cardiac arrest. Pain or phlebitis may occur during I.V. administration of solutions containing about 30 mmol or more potassium per litre. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps may occur following oral administration.
As a general rule, no drugs should be taken during the first three months of pregnancy and the risks & benefits of taking drugs should be carefully considered throughout pregnancy. There are no contraindications to breastfeeding while taking potassium salts.
It should be administered with caution to patients with renal or adrenocortical insufficiency, cardiac disease, acute dehydration, heat cramps, extensive tissue destruction as occurs with severe burns, or to patients receiving potassium-sparing diuretics. Excessive use of potassium-containing salt substitutes or concurrent administration with potassium supplements may lead to accumulation of potasssium especially in patients with renal insufficiency. Attention should be paid to the concurrent use of other drugs that either contain potassium or have the potential for hyperkalaemia. Treatment should be discontinued if severe nausea, vomiting or abdominal distress develops.
Use in children: No special precautions are required.
Electrolytes preparations, Oral electrolytes preparations
Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of the reach of children.
