Potassium chloride: how to take it safely
Slow-K, Kaluril
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats and prevents low potassium, such as from water tablets or diarrhoea.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow slow-release tablets whole, with a full glass of water, sitting upright. Do not crush or chew them.
- Dissolve effervescent tablets in water as the label says.
When to take it
Take it with meals, 1 to 3 times a day, as directed.
Take it with
With food.
What to avoid
- Salt substitutes and extra potassium unless your doctor says so.
- Lying down straight after swallowing.
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems or take ACE inhibitors, ARBs or spironolactone.
Possible side effects
Nausea, stomach upset, diarrhoea.
Get help if
Muscle weakness, palpitations, severe stomach pain, black stools or trouble swallowing: see a doctor.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.