Potassium Chloride (potassium chloride)

Dosage of potassium supplements is usually expressed as mEq of potassium and depends on the requirements of the individual patient. The normal adult daily requirement and the usual dietary intake of potassium is 40-80 mEq; infants may require 2-3 mEq/kg or 40 mEq/m2 daily. Potassium replacement requirements can be estimated only by initial clinical condition and response, ECG monitoring, and/or plasma potassium determinations. Prophylactic administration of potassium supplements may be necessary in some patients in order to maintain plasma potassium concentration above 3.0 mEq/L. The average oral dosage of potassium supplements for the prevention of hypokalemia is about 20 mEq daily, and the usual oral dosage of potassium for the treatment of potassium depletion is 40-100 mEq or more daily. However, it is important to remember that dosage must be individualized for each patient. Forty mEq of potassium is provided by approximately:

*3.9 g of potassium acetate

*4.0 g of potassium bicarbonate

*3.0 g of potassium chloride

*4.3 g of potassium citrate

*9.4 g of potassium gluconate

*5.4 g of monobasic potassium phosphate

*3.5 g of dibasic potassium phosphate

Oral potassium supplements are usually administered in 2-4 doses daily. To avoid serious hyperkalemia, replacement of potassium deficits must be undertaken gradually usually over a 3- to 7-day period depending on the severity of the deficit. Potassium dosage for adults should usually not exceed 150 mEq daily, and the dosage for young children should not exceed 3 mEq/kg daily. Close monitoring of the ECG and plasma potassium concentrations is essential during IV administration of potassium.

The acetate, bicarbonate, chloride, citrate, and gluconate salts of potassium are administered orally. Potassium chloride, potassium acetate, and potassium phosphate may be administered by slow IV infusion. Rarely, potassium-containing injections are given by hypodermoclysis, in which case potassium concentrations should not exceed 10 mEq/L in order to avoid local pain. Whenever possible, potassium supplements should be given orally since the relatively slow absorption from the GI tract prevents sudden, large increases in plasma potassium concentrations. Oral potassium supplements should preferably be administered as liquid with or after meals with a full glass of water or fruit juice to minimize the possibility of GI irritation and a saline cathartic effect. Enteric-coated (no longer commercially available in the US) and wax matrix tablets must be swallowed and not allowed to dissolve in the mouth. Other commercially available oral dosage forms of potassium should be dissolved and/or diluted and administered according to the instructions of the manufacturer.

Potassium for injection concentrates must be diluted with a compatible IV solution prior to administration. Diluted solutions of potassium acetate, potassium chloride, and potassium phosphate for injection concentrates must be administered slowly. Potassium injections should generally be administered only in patients with adequate urine flow. In dehydrated patients, 1 liter of potassium-free fluid should be administered prior to initiating potassium therapy. Generally, potassium concentrations in IV fluids should not exceed 40 mEq/L and the rate of administration should not exceed 20 mEq/hour. However, higher potassium concentrations (e.g., 60-80 mEq/L) administered more rapidly occasionally may be needed initially in cases of severe hypokalemia and associated cardiac arrhythmias or for the management of diabetic ketoacidosis or the diuretic phase of acute renal failure. Local vascular intolerance may limit the ability to administer such concentrated solutions. In such cases, use of a large vein with a relatively high blood flow (e.g., femoral vein) or splitting and administering the dose in less concentrated solutions via 2 veins simultaneously can be considered. Administration of such concentrated potassium solutions via a subclavian, jugular, or right atrial catheter should be avoided since local potassium concentrations achieved in the heart may be high and potentially cardiotoxic. The ECG should be monitored closely when the rate of IV potassium administration exceeds 20 mEq/hour. Peaking of the T wave or other ECG changes associated with hyperkalemia (see Cautions: Hyperkalemia) indicate that the rate of potassium infusion is excessive and should be reduced.

Viaflex(R) Plus containers of potassium chloride injections should be checked for minute leaks by firmly squeezing the bag. The injection should be discarded if the container seal is not intact or leaks are found or if the solution is cloudy or contains a precipitate. The injection in plastic containers should not be used in series connections with other plastic containers, since such use could result in air embolism from residual air being drawn from the primary container before administration of fluid from the secondary container is complete.

Oral administration of potassium supplements or ingestion of potassium-rich foods should replace IV potassium therapy as soon as possible.

There is no enhanced messaging for this drug.

There are no contraindication interactions for this drug.

Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

Potassium Supplements/Eplerenone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Eplerenone increases serum potassium levels.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of eplerenone with a potassium supplement may result in hyperkalemia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Renal impairment.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of eplerenone states that the use of eplerenone for the treatment of hypertension in patients receiving potassium supplements is contraindicated.(1)

DISCUSSION: The main risk of eplerenone therapy is hyperkalemia. The risk of hyperkalemia can be reduced by avoiding potassium supplements during eplerenone therapy.(1)

Potassium Supplements/Potassium Binders

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Patiromer, sodium polystyrene sulfonate and sodium zirconium cyclosilicate bind to potassium.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of potassium supplements and patiromer, sodium polystyrene sulfonate or sodium zirconium cyclosilicate may decrease the effectiveness of both agents.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients should normally not receive potassium supplements and patiromer, sodium polystyrene sulfonate or sodium zirconium cyclosilicate concurrently.(1-3) Patiromer, sodium polystyrene sulfonate or sodium zirconium cyclosilicate are indicated for management of hyperkalemia. Consider discontinuing or holding potassium supplements in patients who develop hyperkalemia requiring treatment.

DISCUSSION: Patiromer, sodium polystyrene sulfonate and sodium zirconium cyclosilicate are indicated for hyperkalemia. Consider discontinuing or holding potassium supplements in patients receiving sodium polystyrene sulfonate or sodium zirconium cyclosilicate.

Potassium Supplements/Potassium Sparing Diuretics

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Decreased renal excretion of potassium, resulting from administration of a potassium sparing diuretic.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: May observe hyperkalemia which may be severe or even fatal.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Renal function impairment.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If both drugs are administered, monitor potassium levels. Adjust the dose of the drugs accordingly. This combination should probably be avoided if possible.

DISCUSSION: The interaction is well documented. Patients with decreased renal function are especially at risk of developing hyperkalemia from this drug combination. A commonly held belief is that a potassium sparing diuretic formulated in combination with a thiazide diuretic, such as Dyazide, will not exhibit this interaction. Although the likelihood of hyperkalemia occurring may be reduced somewhat, a danger still exists.

Potassium Supplements/Trimethoprim

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Trimethoprim may increase serum potassium levels by reduction in potassium elimination.(1-3) The combination of trimethoprim and potassium supplements can have an additive effect on serum potassium resulting in potentially dangerous levels.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of trimethoprim and potassium supplements may result in hyperkalemia, which may be severe.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients who are elderly, have any degree of renal insufficiency or heart failure have an increased risk for hyperkalemia.(1-9) Concomitant use with other drugs associated with hyperkalemia risk (e.g. ACE Inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor antagonists, aldosterone antagonists, NSAIDs) and high doses of trimethoprim further increase the risk for hyperkalemia.(1-8) Interaction risk and severity is greater in patients with multiple risk factors.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Assure adequate monitoring for hyperkalemia.(1-9) Patients receiving trimethoprim and a potassium supplement concurrently should have their serum potassium monitored at baseline and during treatment. Potassium supplementation may need to be held during antibiotic therapy, especially when other predisposing factors for hyperkalemia are present. Peak potassium increase due to trimethoprim is delayed and generally occurs after 4 or more days of therapy.(3,5,6) When possible, alternative antibiotic therapy should be considered in patients with one or more risk factors for hyperkalemia, e.g. renal impairment, heart failure, age > 65 years, and/or receiving additional meds associated with hyperkalemia risk (e.g. ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, aldosterone antagonists, NSAIDs).(6)

DISCUSSION: A nested case-control study evaluated the risk for hyperkalemia in 19,194 patients with newly diagnosed heart failure. Over a mean follow-up of 3.9 years 2,176 cases of hyperkalemia (96.7% with a potassium value of => 5.5 mmol/L) were identified. Study authors found that trimethoprim independently increased the risk for hyperkalemia (OR 2.82; 95% CI 1.88-4.23).(4) A retrospective cohort study evaluated the risk for hospitalization due to hyperkalemia in 393,039 elderly women (age >65 years) treated for a urinary tract infection (UTI) with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) or another antibiotic (amoxicillin, ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, nitrofurantoin). Baseline renal function was similar in all five antibiotic groups. When compared with amoxicillin, TMP-SMX use was associated with a 3.3-fold increased risk for hospitalization due to hyperkalemia. Ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, and nitrofurantoin were not associated with a risk for hyperkalemia.(9) A prospective study of hospitalized patients evaluated the risk for hyperkalemia in patients who received standard dose TMP-SMX (<= 320 mg trimethoprim, <= 1600 mg sulfamethoxazole daily) versus a control group who received a different antibiotic for at least 5 days. The two groups were similar in age, renal function and use of potassium altering medications. Serum potassium concentration increased in TMP-SMX patients by 1.21 mmol/L (CI 1.09 - 1.32 mmol/L), a change which was statistically significant in patients with a pretreatment serum creatinine = or > 1.2. In control patients, serum potassium decreased during antibiotic therapy (change not quantitated by authors).(5)

Solid Oral Potassium Capsules/Anticholinergics

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concentrated potassium may damage the lining of the GI tract. Anticholinergics delay gastric emptying, resulting in the potassium product remaining in the gastrointestinal tract for a longer period of time.(1-16))

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Use of solid oral dosage forms of potassium in patients treated with anticholinergics may result in gastrointestinal erosions, ulcers, stenosis and bleeding.(1-16)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Diseases or conditions which may increase risk for GI damage include: preexisting dysphagia, strictures, cardiomegaly, diabetic gastroparesis, elderly status, or insufficient oral intake to allow dilution of potassium.(1-10,21) Other drugs which may add to risk for GI damage include: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), bisphosphonates, or tetracyclines.(21)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Regulatory agency and manufacturer recommendations regarding this interaction: - In the US, all solid oral dosage forms (including tablets and extended release capsules) of potassium are contraindicated in patients receiving anticholinergics at sufficient dosages to result in systemic effects.(2-8) Patients receiving such anticholinergic therapy should use a liquid form of potassium chloride.(2) - In Canada, solid oral potassium is contraindicated in any patient with a cause for arrest or delay in tablet/capsule passage through the gastrointestinal tract and the manufacturers recommend caution with concurrent anticholinergic medications.(1,9-10) Evaluate each patient for predisposing factors which may increase risk for GI damage. In patients with multiple risk factors for harm, consider use of liquid potassium supplements, if tolerated. For patients receiving concomitant therapy, assure any potassium dose form is taken after meals with a large glass of water or other fluid. To decrease potassium concentration in the GI tract, limit each dose to 20 meq; if more than 20 meq daily is required, give in divided doses.(2) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. Patients should be instructed to immediately report any difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, distention, severe vomiting, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: In clinical trials, there was a higher incidence of gastric and duodenal lesions in patients receiving a high dose of a wax-matrix controlled-release formulation with a concurrent anticholinergic agent. The lesions were asymptomatic and not accompanied by bleeding, as shown by a lack of positive Hemoccult tests.(1-17) Several studies suggest that the incidence of gastric and duodenal lesions may be less with the microencapsulated formulation of potassium chloride.(14-17)

Solid Oral Potassium Tablets/Anticholinergics

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concentrated potassium may damage the lining of the GI tract. Anticholinergics delay gastric emptying, resulting in the potassium product remaining in the gastrointestinal tract for a longer period of time.(1-16)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Use of solid oral dosage forms of potassium in patients treated with anticholinergics may result in gastrointestinal erosions, ulcers, stenosis and bleeding.(1-16)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Diseases or conditions which may increase risk for GI damage include: preexisting dysphagia, strictures, cardiomegaly, diabetic gastroparesis, elderly status, or insufficient oral intake to allow dilution of potassium.(1-10,21) Other drugs which may add to risk for GI damage include: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), bisphosphonates, or tetracyclines.(21)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Regulatory agency and manufacturer recommendations regarding this interaction: - In the US, all solid oral dosage forms (including tablets and extended release capsules) of potassium are contraindicated in patients receiving anticholinergics at sufficient dosages to result in systemic effects.(2-8) Patients receiving such anticholinergic therapy should use a liquid form of potassium chloride.(2) - In Canada, solid oral potassium is contraindicated in any patient with a cause for arrest or delay in tablet/capsule passage through the gastrointestinal tract and the manufacturers recommend caution with concurrent anticholinergic medications.(1,9-10) Evaluate each patient for predisposing factors which may increase risk for GI damage. In patients with multiple risk factors for harm, consider use of liquid potassium supplements, if tolerated. For patients receiving concomitant therapy, assure any potassium dose form is taken after meals with a large glass of water or other fluid. To decrease potassium concentration in the GI tract, limit each dose to 20 meq; if more than 20 meq daily is required, give in divided doses.(2) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. Patients should be instructed to immediately report any difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, distention, severe vomiting, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: In clinical trials, there was a higher incidence of gastric and duodenal lesions in patients receiving a high dose of a wax-matrix controlled-release formulation with a concurrent anticholinergic agent. Some lesions were asymptomatic and not accompanied by bleeding, as shown by a lack of positive Hemoccult tests.(1-17) Several studies suggest that the incidence of gastric and duodenal lesions may be less with the microencapsulated formulation of potassium chloride.(14-17)

Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

Agents That Increase Potassium/Baxdrostat

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The combination of baxdrostat and agents that increase potassium such as aldosterone receptor antagonists, potassium-sparing diuretics, and potassium supplements can have an additive effect on serum potassium levels.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of baxdrostat and agents that increase potassium may result in hyperkalemia, which may be severe.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: More frequent monitoring is recommended for patients at increased risk of hyperkalemia (e.g., patients greater than or equal to 65 years or age, those with diabetes mellitus or chronic kidney disease).(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of baxdrostat states concurrent use with medications that may increase potassium warrants more frequent monitoring of serum potassium.(1) Assess serum potassium prior to initiation of baxdrostat and monitor periodically during treatment. Correct serum potassium abnormalities prior to initiation of baxdrostat.(1) If hyperkalemia occurs, treat hyperkalemia and consider interrupting or discontinuing baxdrostat. Consider more frequent monitoring of serum potassium in patients who restart baxdrostat after experiencing hyperkalemia. Permanently discontinue baxdrostat if clinically significant hyperkalemia recurs.(1)

DISCUSSION: Baxdrostat may increase potassium. Concurrent use with aldosterone receptor antagonists, potassium-sparing diuretics, and potassium supplements may have additive effects on serum potassium levels, resulting in hyperkalemia. The risk of hyperkalemia can be reduced by monitoring serum potassium more frequently when baxdrostat is administered concomitantly with these agents.

Potassium Supplements/Aliskiren

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Aliskiren may decrease the renal excretion of potassium.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of potassium supplements with aliskiren may result in hyperkalemia.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Impaired renal function; diabetes mellitus.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitor serum potassium and adjust the dosage accordingly in patients receiving concurrent therapy with potassium supplements and aliskiren.

DISCUSSION: Several studies have indicated that serum potassium levels increase when ACE inhibitors and ARB therapy is initiated and decrease when the drug is lowered. Increased potassium levels have also been seen with aliskiren. Based on this data, serum potassium levels should be monitored in patients receiving potassium supplements with aliskiren.

Potassium Supplements/Angiotensin Ii Receptor Blocker (ARB)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) may decrease the renal excretion of potassium.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of potassium supplements with ARBs may result in hyperkalemia.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Impaired renal function; diabetes mellitus.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitor serum potassium and adjust the dosage accordingly in patients receiving concurrent therapy with potassium supplements and ARBs.

DISCUSSION: Several studies have indicated that serum potassium levels increase when ARB therapy is initiated and decrease when the drug is lowered. Based on this data, serum potassium levels should be monitored in patients receiving potassium supplements with ARBs.

Potassium Supplements/Drospirenone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Drospirenone has antimineralocorticoid activity and may cause hyperkalemia. Potassium supplements also increase potassium levels.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of drospirenone and potassium supplements may result in hyperkalemia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Renal insufficiency, hepatic dysfunction, adrenal insufficiency, and use of potassium-sparing diuretics, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor antagonists, heparin, and NSAIDs may increase potassium levels.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving drospirenone with a potassium supplement should have their serum potassium level checked during the first treatment cycle.(1)

DISCUSSION: Drospirenone has antimineralocorticoid activity comparable to 25 mg of spironolactone and may result in hyperkalemia. Concurrent use of potassium-supplements also increase potassium levels.(1)

Potassium Supplements/Selected Ace Inhibitors

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: ACE inhibitors may decrease the renal excretion of potassium. MECHANISM OF ACTION: ACE inhibitors may decrease the renal excretion of potassium.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of potassium supplements with ACE inhibitors may result in hyperkalemia. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of potassium supplements with ACE inhibitors may result in hyperkalemia.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Impaired renal function; diabetes mellitus. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Impaired renal function; diabetes mellitus.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitor serum potassium and adjust the dosage accordingly in patients receiving concurrent therapy with potassium supplements and ACE inhibitors. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitor serum potassium and adjust the dosage accordingly in patients receiving concurrent therapy with potassium supplements and ACE inhibitors.

DISCUSSION: Several studies have indicated that serum potassium levels increase when ACE inhibitors is initiated and decrease when the drug is lowered. Based on this data, serum potassium levels should be monitored in patients receiving potassium supplements with ACE inhibitors. Selected ACE inhibitors linked to this monograph include: alacepril, cilazapril, delapril, imidapril, perindopril, spirapril, temocapril, and zofenopril. DISCUSSION: Several studies have indicated that serum potassium levels increase when ACE inhibitors is initiated and decrease when the drug is lowered. Based on this data, serum potassium levels should be monitored in patients receiving potassium supplements with ACE inhibitors. Selected ACE inhibitors linked to this monograph include: benazepril, captopril, enalapril, fosinopril, lisinopril, moexipril, quinapril, ramipril, and trandolapril.

Solid Oral Potassium Capsules/Inhaled Anticholinergics

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concentrated potassium may damage the lining of the GI tract. Anticholinergics delay gastric emptying, resulting in the potassium product remaining in the gastrointestinal tract for a longer period of time.(1-16)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Use of solid oral dosage forms of potassium in patients treated with inhaled anticholinergics could potentially result in gastrointestinal erosions, ulcers, stenosis and bleeding.(1-16)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Diseases or conditions which may increase risk for GI damage include: preexisting dysphagia, strictures, cardiomegaly, diabetic gastroparesis, elderly status, or insufficient oral intake to allow dilution of potassium.(1-10,21) Other drugs which may add to risk for GI damage include: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), bisphosphonates, or tetracyclines.(21)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Regulatory agency and manufacturer recommendations regarding this interaction: - In the US, all solid oral dosage forms (including tablets and extended release capsules) of potassium are contraindicated in patients receiving anticholinergics at sufficient dosages to result in systemic effects.(2-8) Patients receiving such anticholinergic therapy should use a liquid form of potassium chloride.(2) - In Canada, solid oral potassium is contraindicated in any patient with a cause for arrest or delay in tablet/capsule passage through the gastrointestinal tract and the manufacturers recommend caution with concurrent anticholinergic medications.(1,9-10) Evaluate each patient for predisposing factors which may increase risk for GI damage. In patients with multiple risk factors for harm, consider use of liquid potassium supplements, if tolerated. For patients receiving concomitant therapy, assure any potassium dose form is taken after meals with a large glass of water or other fluid. To decrease potassium concentration in the GI tract, limit each dose to 20 meq; if more than 20 meq daily is required, give in divided doses.(2) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. Patients should be instructed to immediately report any difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, distention, severe vomiting, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: In clinical trials, there was a higher incidence of gastric and duodenal lesions in patients receiving a high dose of a wax-matrix controlled-release formulation with a concurrent anticholinergic agent. Some lesions were asymptomatic and not accompanied by bleeding, as shown by a lack of positive Hemoccult tests.(1-17) Several studies suggest that the incidence of gastric and duodenal lesions may be less with the microencapsulated formulation of potassium chloride.(14-17) Constipation has been reported as a side effect of inhaled anticholinergic agents such as ipratropium(22) and tiotropium.(23)

Solid Oral Potassium Tablets/Inhaled Anticholinergics

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concentrated potassium may damage the lining of the GI tract. Anticholinergics delay gastric emptying, resulting in the potassium product remaining in the gastrointestinal tract for a longer period of time.(1-16)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Use of solid oral dosage forms of potassium in patients treated with inhaled anticholinergics could potentially result in gastrointestinal erosions, ulcers, stenosis and bleeding.(1-16)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Diseases or conditions which may increase risk for GI damage include: preexisting dysphagia, strictures, cardiomegaly, diabetic gastroparesis, elderly status, or insufficient oral intake to allow dilution of potassium.(1-10,21) Other drugs which may add to risk for GI damage include: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), bisphosphonates, or tetracyclines.(21)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Regulatory agency and manufacturer recommendations regarding this interaction: - In the US, all solid oral dosage forms (including tablets and extended release capsules) of potassium are contraindicated in patients receiving anticholinergics at sufficient dosages to result in systemic effects.(2-8) Patients receiving such anticholinergic therapy should use a liquid form of potassium chloride.(2) - In Canada, solid oral potassium is contraindicated in any patient with a cause for arrest or delay in tablet/capsule passage through the gastrointestinal tract and the manufacturers recommend caution with concurrent anticholinergic medications.(1,9-10) Evaluate each patient for predisposing factors which may increase risk for GI damage. In patients with multiple risk factors for harm, consider use of liquid potassium supplements, if tolerated. For patients receiving concomitant therapy, assure any potassium dose form is taken after meals with a large glass of water or other fluid. To decrease potassium concentration in the GI tract, limit each dose to 20 meq; if more than 20 meq daily is required, give in divided doses.(2) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. Patients should be instructed to immediately report any difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, distention, severe vomiting, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: In clinical trials, there was a higher incidence of gastric and duodenal lesions in patients receiving a high dose of a wax-matrix controlled-release formulation with a concurrent anticholinergic agent. Some lesions were asymptomatic and not accompanied by bleeding, as shown by a lack of positive Hemoccult tests.(1-17) Several studies suggest that the incidence of gastric and duodenal lesions may be less with the microencapsulated formulation of potassium chloride.(14-17) Constipation has been reported as a side effect of inhaled anticholinergic agents such as ipratropium(22) and tiotropium.(23)

There is no enhanced messaging for this drug.

• Acute epiglottitis
• Esophageal dysmotility
• Esophageal obstruction
• Familial hyperkalemic periodic paralysis
• Gastrointestinal obstruction
• Gastroparesis
• Hyperkalemia

• Anuria
• Complete atrioventricular block
• Dehydration
• Gastrointestinal ulcer
• Hyperchloremia
• Metabolic acidosis
• Myotonia congenita - autosomal dominant form
• Primary adrenocortical insufficiency
• Severe burns
• Severe heart block

• Kidney disease with reduction in glomerular filtration rate (GFr)

There is no enhanced messaging for this drug.

Less Frequent

• Hyperkalemia

Rare or Very Rare

• Bloody stools
• Duodenal ulcer
• Gastrointestinal hemorrhage
• Gastrointestinal irritation
• Gastrointestinal obstruction
• Gastrointestinal perforation
• Gastrointestinal ulcer
• Skin rash
• Sore throat

More Frequent

• Acute abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Flatulence
• Nausea
• Vomiting

No enhanced messaging available.

No enhanced messaging available.

No enhanced messaging available.

No enhanced messaging available.

No enhanced messaging available.