Not medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine.
Potassium Chloride
Generic Name: POTASSIUM CHLORIDE
Potassium Chloride Extended-Release Tablets, USP are a solid oral dosage form of potassium chloride.
Data last updated: 30 March 2026 · Source: openFDA.gov, DailyMed (NLM/NIH)
Common Brand Names in India:
How Does It Work?
Potassium ions participate in a number of essential physiological processes including the maintenance of intracellular tonicity, the transmission of nerve impulses, the contraction of cardiac, skeletal and smooth muscle and the maintenance of normal renal function.
Dosage & Administration
- Swallow tablets whole without crushing, chewing or sucking. Treatment of hypokalemia : Doses range from 40 to 100 mEq/day in divided doses.
- Limit doses to 40 mEq per dose. Prevention of hypokalemia : Typical dose is 20 mEq per day. 2.1 Administration and Monitoring If serum potassium concentration is less than 2.5 mEq/L, use intravenous potassium instead of oral supplementation.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Warnings & Precautions
- Gastrointestinal Irritation: Take with meals 5.1 Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions Solid oral dosage forms of potassium chloride can produce ulcerative and/or stenotic lesions of the gastrointestinal tract, particularly if the drug maintains contact with the gastrointestinal mucosa for prolonged periods.
Who Should NOT Take This?
- Potassium chloride is contraindicated in patients on triamterene and amiloride.
- Concomitant use with triamterene and amiloride (4)
Drug Interactions
Potassium Chloride may interact with the following medicines. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Speak to a general physician on Zospital
Consult a general physician on Zospital before starting Potassium Chloride. Verified Indian specialists available for in-clinic and online consultations.
Other Vitamins & Minerals Medicines
Sources: openFDA.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · nlm.nih.gov (RxNorm). Information is for educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before use.
FAQS
Potassium Chloride – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Potassium Chloride, its uses, dosage and safety.
Potassium Chloride is sold in India under brand names such as Medi-Lyte, Potassium Chloride. You can also find it on online pharmacies like 1mg, Pharmeasy and Apollo Pharmacy.
Potassium Chloride is generally available over the counter (OTC) at Indian pharmacies. Even so, it is safer to consult a doctor before starting any new medicine, especially if you have other ongoing conditions.
Common side effects of Potassium Chloride can include: Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Rash, Abdominal pain. If side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.
Potassium ions participate in a number of essential physiological processes including the maintenance of intracellular tonicity, the transmission of nerve impulses, the contraction of cardiac, skeletal and smooth muscle and the maintenance of normal renal function.
Potassium Chloride can interact with: Renin, Nonsteroidal. Tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take — including ayurvedic and homeopathy preparations — before starting Potassium Chloride.
Indian guidelines often recommend lower starting doses of Potassium Chloride for patients above 60-65, since kidney and liver function decline with age. A doctor should review the dose, especially if the patient already takes BP, sugar or heart medicines.
Even though Potassium Chloride is OTC, it should not be self-prescribed during pregnancy. Discuss it with your gynaecologist or family physician first.
Prices in India typically range from ₹50 – ₹500 per bottle depending on brand and quantity. Generic versions tend to cost 30-60% less than branded ones, and Jan Aushadhi outlets often stock the lowest-priced equivalents. Check 1mg or Pharmeasy for live MRP.
If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one — never double up. Frequent missed doses reduce Potassium Chloride's effectiveness, so consider setting a reminder or speaking to your doctor about a simpler schedule.
You can book an in-person or online consultation with a verified Indian specialist on Zospital — visit the doctor directory at https://zospital.com/doctor to find one near you.
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.