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.

Potassium chloride supplements are used to provide the body with potassium. This helps treat and prevent potassium deficiency.

Potassium is an essential mineral for healthy functioning. It plays a major role in maintaining normal fluid and electrolyte balance, as well as regulating muscle contractions and electrical signals in the body. Additionally, potassium is important for heart health, as it helps maintain a regular heartbeat and blood pressure. The recommended daily intake of potassium for adults is 1,600-2,000 milligrams. Deficiencies of this mineral can lead to various health problems such as muscle weakness and cramps, irregular heartbeat, fatigue, hypertension or high blood pressure, and digestive issues like constipation. Potassium can be found naturally in many fruits and vegetables like potatoes, bananas, oranges, tomatoes, spinach and broccoli. It can also be consumed by including dairy products like milk or yogurt in your daily diet. Supplementing with commercially available potassium chloride tablets is another way to meet the recommended dietary allowance of potassium if natural food sources are inadequate. In addition to its importance for cardiovascular health, increased levels of dietary potassium have been associated with improved bone health in both adults and children.

Potassium supplementation has been shown to cause adverse effects in some patients. If these reactions become severe or do not go away after a day or two, seek medical attention right away.

Mild side effects reported from potassium chloride use include:

• Diarrhea
  
• Stomach pain
  
• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
  

More serious side effects include:

• Confusion
  
• Changes in heartbeat
  
• Restlessness
  
• Tingling in the arms, hands, legs or feet
  
• Shortness of breath
  
• Anxiety
  
• Muscle weakness
  
• Heaviness of legs
  
• Bloody or blackened stool
  
  

If you experience any of these side effects, seek medical attention immediately. These are symptoms of a possibly serious adverse reaction to this medication and require treatment right away.

As with all medication, inform your doctor of any medical conditions you are currently managing. Tell them about any and all medication, prescription drugs, and supplements you are taking before starting treatment with potassium chloride. Potassium chloride can interact with substances in the body, causing potentially serious adverse reactions.

Specifically, you should inform your health care provider of any angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) medications, diuretics or vitamins you are currently taking. Be sure to mention any herbal products you are using.

Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart, kidney or Addison’s (adrenal gland) disease.

In addition, let your doctor know if you are planning to become pregnant, are pregnant, or are currently breastfeeding before starting treatment with this medication. Call your provider if you become pregnant while you are taking potassium supplements.

Potassium chloride is commonly supplied as an oral tablet, soluble powder, or liquid. The specific dosage ordered by your health care provider depends on the severity of your condition, your age and your body weight. Take this medication exactly as ordered. Do not increase or discontinue the dosage without consulting with your health care provider first.

Keep all medication bottles out of reach of small children, and at room temperature. Avoid exposing the medication to excess heat or moisture.

If you begin to notice any adverse side effects like those listed above, notify your health care provider immediately.

Yes. Nonprescription-strength potassium chloride is widely available at most grocery stores, pharmacies and medical supply retailers in its generic form.

Before purchasing potassium supplements over the counter, you should discuss your condition with your health care provider. Some patients may require a stronger dosage of potassium supplementation and will be prescribed a higher-dosage medication. It is recommended that you seek medical advice prior to starting treatment with potassium supplements.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for potassium chloride to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.