Products
Potassium is commercially available, among other things, in the form of effervescent tablets (so-called effervettes), as sustained-release dragées and sustained-release tablets (e.g., Kalium Hausmann, KCl-retard, Plus Kalium). It is also contained in sports drinks such as Isostar or Sponser. The dose is usually expressed in millimoles (mmol) or milliequivalents (mEq):
- 1 mmol = 39.1 mg potassium
- 10 mmol = 391 mg potassium
- 30 mmol = 1173 mg potassium
1 mmol is equal to 1 mEq. See also under the article mole. Foods rich in potassium include dried fruits, figs, nuts, vegetables, fruits and meat.
Structure and properties
The potassium ion (K+) is present in drugs in the form of various salts. The most common is potassium chloride (KCl, Mr = 74.6 g/mol), which is present as colorless crystals or as a white crystalline powder that is readily soluble in water. It should not be confused with potassium chlorate. Potassium hydrogen carbonate is also used.
Effects
Potassium (ATC A12BA) is one of the most important cations in the body. It is predominantly localized inside cells and plays a central role in the generation of resting membrane and action potentials. It is therefore important for nerve and muscle functions, for example, the heart, skeletal muscle and nervous system. Potassium is also involved in the regulation of acid-base and water balance. The primary active transporter Na+ / K+-ATPase maintains the concentration gradient between the intracellular and extracellular spaces under energy consumption. Supplementation provides the body with the missing amount of potassium.
Indications
Potassium is primarily used for the prevention and treatment of hypokalemia. Potassium deficiency can be caused by medications such as diuretics, laxative abuse, malnutrition, and various diseases, among others. Athletes also have an increased requirement. Hypokalemia manifests as fatigue, nausea, constipation, mood changes, cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, paralysis, alkalosis, and kidney dysfunction.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. Medicines are taken with or after food. Response to treatment should be checked with blood level measurement. The usual daily requirement (DACH reference value) for adults is 2000 mg and is high compared with other minerals.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Hyperkalemia
- Severe renal insufficiency, oliguria
- Treatment with potassium-sparing diuretics such as spironolactone.
- Adrenal insufficiency, untreated Addison’s disease.
- Severe dehydration
- Diseases with significant cell destruction such as burns.
- Gastrointestinal ulcers
- Gastrointestinal stenosis or atony, treatment with anticholinergics (retard preparations).
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Drugs that increase potassium levels may promote the risk of developing hyperkalemia. These include, for example, potassium-sparing diuretics and ACE inhibitors. Anticholinergics may reduce gastrointestinal motility, increasing the risk for adverse reactions.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include hyperkalemia (especially in the presence of risk factors such as renal disease) and gastrointestinal symptoms such as irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Rarely, mucosal ulceration and perforation may occur.
