Potassium chloride is a form of supplementation used to prevent and treat low levels of potassium in the body. While most people are able to get enough potassium from the foods and beverages they consume, certain diseases (like kidney disease) and medications (like diuretics) remove potassium from the blood. This can result in dangerously low potassium levels.
Potassium chloride may be prescribed for other uses. Your health care provider will let you know if you need potassium supplementation.
Potassium supplements are widely available over the counter at grocery stores and pharmacies. Stronger potassium supplements are given via a health care provider’s prescription. These may be available under the generic drug name (potassium chloride) or under the brand names Klor-Con, Kaon, Kay Ciel and Micro-K.