Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

POTASSIUM SUPPLEMENT EFFERVESCENT - ORAL (TABLETS)

(poh-TASS-ee-um)

Uses

Potassium plays an important role in the body. It is involved in many functions such as muscle contraction, cell development, nerve stimulation, food metabolism and is critical for normal functioning of the heart and kidneys. This medication is used to treat or prevent low potassium blood levels.

How To Use

Take this medication as prescribed. Effervescent tablets are to be dissolved in four to eight ounces of cold water or juice. Stir and drink slowly. Do not swallow the effervescent tablets. The tablet must be dissolved completely in liquid. To prevent stomach upset, take this after a meal or with food. Take with a full glass of water (8oz or 240ml) unless your doctor directs you otherwise.

Side Effects

Stomach upset, nausea or diarrhea may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain, irregular heartbeat, tingling of the hands or feet, breathing trouble, unusual weakness or tiredness, stomach pain, black stools. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Be sure your doctor knows your complete medical history especially of: kidney problems, heart disease, digestion problems, any allergies. This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Potassium supplements are not known to appear in breast. milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use (both prescription and nonprescription) especially if you take: "water pills" (diuretics such as furosemide or amiloride), ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril), digoxin, salt substitutes containing potassium. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include irregular heartbeat, blood in stools, and muscle weakness.

Notes

Good food sources of potassium include bananas, dates, prunes, raisins, avocados, apricots, watermelon, broccoli, brussels sprouts, spinach, beans, potatoes, lentils, meats, fish and shellfish. Salt substitutes contain potassium. Do not use a salt substitute unless recommended by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered. If it is near the time for the next dose, take both the missed dose and the regular scheduled dose, then resume your usual dosing schedule.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat, light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).