Potassium chloride

Administration

• Type: Electrolyte supplement
• Dosage Forms: Tablets (10mEq, 20mEq); Oral solution; IV concentrate (2mEq/mL)
• Routes of Administration: PO, IV
• Common Trade Names: K-Dur, Klor-Con, Micro-K

Adult Dosing

General

• Mild hypokalemia (3.0-3.5 mEq/L): 40-80mEq PO daily in divided doses
• Moderate hypokalemia (2.5-3.0 mEq/L): 40mEq IV at 10mEq/hr (max 40mEq/hr via central line for emergencies)
• Severe hypokalemia (<2.5 mEq/L): Up to 40mEq/hr IV via central line with continuous cardiac monitoring

Pediatric Dosing

General

• 0.5-1mEq/kg/dose IV (max rate 0.5mEq/kg/hr)

Special Populations

• Pregnancy Rating: C
• Lactation risk: Compatible

Renal Dosing

• Use with extreme caution in renal impairment; reduce dose and monitor closely

Hepatic Dosing

• No specific adjustment

Contraindications

• Hyperkalemia
• Severe renal impairment (use with caution)
• Crush injury with expected hyperkalemia

Adverse Drug Reactions

Serious

• Hyperkalemia (cardiac arrest risk)
• GI ulceration (oral forms)

Common

• Nausea
• Abdominal discomfort
• Diarrhea
• IV site pain/phlebitis

Pharmacology

• Onset of action: Immediate (IV)
• Distribution: Intracellular
• Excretion: Renal (90%)

Mechanism of Action

• Provides exogenous potassium to correct deficiency
• Essential for maintaining resting membrane potential, cardiac conduction, and neuromuscular function

See Also

• Hypokalemia
• Hyperkalemia
• Electrolyte abnormalities