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 CHLORIDE TABLETS EXTENDED RELEASE - ORAL

(poh-TASS-ee-um KLOR-ide)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): K-Dur, Klor-Con

Uses

Potassium supplements are used to prevent or treat low potassium blood levels caused by diuretics (water pills), illnesses or poor diet. Also used for certain cases of high blood pressure.

How To Use

Take this by mouth as directed. You may swallow the tablets whole or, if you have trouble swallowing tablets, dissolve them in a glass of cool water. It may take a few minutes to dissolve. After the tablet has dissolved, stir for a minute, swirl the glass and drink. Fill the glass with water (8oz or 240ml) and drink it to assure all the medication is taken (unless your doctor directs you otherwise). Take this medication with meals to prevent stomach upset. Do not take on an empty stomach. If swallowing the tablet whole, do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking it.

Side Effects

Nausea, stomach upset, vomiting or diarrhea may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to this. If these symptoms continue or become severe, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: breathing trouble, chest pain, an irregular heartbeat, dark or tarry stools, confusion, tingling of the hands or feet, stomach pain. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before taking this, tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, heart disease, a history of ulcers, allergies. Symptoms of low potassium include fatigue, weakness, muscle twitching or cramps, dry mouth and excessive thirst. Symptoms of high potassium levels include irregular heartbeat or muscle weakness. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult with 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

Salt substitutes contain potassium instead of sodium. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about using a salt substitute. Good sources of potassium-containing foods include bananas, citrus fruits, watermelon, cantaloupe, raisins, dates, prunes, avocados, apricots, beans, lentils, fish, chicken, turkey, ham, beef and milk.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

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