People's Pharmacy

Potassium Chloride Controlled Release

Other Brand Names: Micro-K

Revised:4/1/2000

Table of Contents

Overview

Micro-K is a specially formulated potassium supplement designed to slowly release potassium and chloride over 8 to 10 hours.

By taking potassium this way, patients are not supposed to experience the unpleasant taste many liquid potassium supplements leave in the mouth and it is hoped they will also have a lower risk of digestive tract irritation.

Potassium is an essential mineral that plays an important role in every cell in the body. It is crucial for normal heart rhythms.

Many medications can deplete the body of potassium, including diuretics and cortisone-type compounds.

This can be extremely dangerous, especially for people taking digitalis heart medicine.

Symptoms of potassium loss include weakness, palpitations, irregular heart rhythms and fatigue. However the only way you can really tell if your body is low in potassium is to have a blood test.

Normally, doctors prefer that patients with mild to moderate potassium loss replace this mineral through the diet.

Potassium-rich foods include vegetables such potatoes, beets, brussels sprouts, spinach, cabbage, broccoli, carrots, peppers and squash.

Fish and fruits like apricots, strawberries, bananas, oranges, peaches and plums are also good sources of potassium.

Some people may not be able to maintain adequate potassium levels even with a diet rich in such fruits and vegetables.

Periodic blood tests are crucial to monitor potassium levels in the body.

If such a test shows that potassium levels are low, your physician may recommend a liquid or effervescent potassium supplement. If the taste or discomfort is unbearable, he may prescribe a pill like Micro-K.