Potassium Chloride
Potassium is essential for heart and muscle function. Deficiency is common after severe vomiting or diarrhea.
Dosage by Body Weight
Must be taken with plenty of water and food to avoid stomach irritation. Dosed in mEq.
- Body Weight
- Infants/Children
- Dose
- 1-2 mEq/kg per day
- Frequency
- Divided into 2-4 doses
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor blood potassium levels frequently.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infants/Children | 1-2 mEq/kg per day | Divided into 2-4 doses | Monitor blood potassium levels frequently. |
Formulation
Purpose
Treatment and prevention of potassium deficiency (hypokalemia).
Generic Name
KClBranded Drug Names
Potassium Chloride is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.
Alternatives
Safety Advice
Alcohol
CAUTIONPotassium Chloride: Alcohol may worsen dehydration, stomach upset, or interfere with nutritional recovery. Avoid or limit alcohol.
Pregnancy
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDPotassium Chloride: Generally safe in pregnancy when used at recommended doses or as prescribed. Avoid excessive supplementation.
Breast Feeding
SAFEPotassium Chloride: Generally compatible with breastfeeding when used at recommended doses. Ask a healthcare provider before high-dose use.
Driving
SAFEPotassium Chloride: Usually does not affect driving. Avoid driving only if you feel unwell, dizzy, or weak from the underlying condition.
Liver
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDPotassium Chloride: Usually safe at recommended doses, but high-dose or fat-soluble vitamin use should be medically supervised in liver disease.
Kidney
CAUTIONPotassium Chloride: Kidney disease may require avoiding or adjusting minerals and electrolytes such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, or phosphate.