Generic Name: POTASSIUM SUPPLEMENTS - ORAL
Pronounced: (poe-TAS-ee-um)

Potassium Oral Uses

This medication is a mineral supplement used to prevent or treat low amounts of potassium in the blood. A normal level of potassium in the blood is important so that your cells, nerves, heart, muscles, and kidneys work properly. Normal blood levels of potassium are usually achieved by eating a well-balanced diet. However, certain situations cause your body to lose potassium faster than you can replace it from your diet. These situations include treatment with certain "water pills" (diuretics), a poor diet, or certain medical conditions (e.g., severe diarrhea especially with vomiting).

How To Use Potassium Oral

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. To prevent stomach upset, take each dose with a meal and a full glass (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) of water unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for 10 minutes after taking this medication. Taking this medication in 2-3 divided doses per day may also help to reduce stomach upset.

Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to take it at the same time(s) each day. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Do not increase your dose or take it more often than prescribed. Too much potassium in the blood can cause serious side effects.

Sustained-release capsules and tablets must be swallowed whole. Do not crush, chew, or suck the pills because this may increase side effects.

Inform your doctor if symptoms of low potassium blood levels (e.g., muscle cramps/weakness, tiredness, irregular heartbeat) persist or worsen.

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