Potassium supplements

About potassium supplements

Potassium is essential for keeping the body healthy. Too little or too much potassium can trigger irregular heart rhythms.

Replacement of potassium may be necessary if:

• You take the heart drug digoxin or an anti-arrhythmic drug.
• Your body's potassium control is disrupted by, for example, severe liver disease.
• You lose potassium in your stools through an illness such as chronic diarrhoea.
• You are an older person and unable to eat a well-balanced diet.

If any of these apply to you, your doctor will assess your blood potassium levels to check if replacement therapy is needed.

Before taking potassium supplements

Before taking potassium supplements make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you have kidney problems.
• If you have ever suffered from a stomach ulcer, bowel problems or hiatus hernia.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take potassium supplements

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take your potassium supplements exactly as directed by your doctor. Take them with or immediately after food.
• If you have been prescribed the modified release tablets (Slow-K®), swallow the tablets whole with a large glass of water during meals, whilst sitting or standing.
• Dissolve or mix the effervescent tablets (Sando-K®) in half a glassful of water. Drink the solution straight away.
• Try to take potassium supplements at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so that your progress can be monitored. Your doctor will want to check how much potassium is in your blood.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can potassium supplements cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store potassium supplements

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines