Indications
Potassium Bicarbonate, usually in effervescent tablets and often combined with Potassium Citrate, is used to prevent and treat low blood potassium (hypokalaemia), for example when caused by diuretics, vomiting or diarrhoea. It is also used to make the urine less acidic, which helps prevent certain kidney stones and treat some types of acidosis.
How It Works
It replaces potassium, a mineral the body needs for normal heart rhythm, muscle strength and nerve signals. The bicarbonate part neutralises acid, making the blood and urine less acidic.
Dosage and Administration
As prescribed. The dose depends on blood potassium levels and the reason for treatment, and the doctor will adjust it after blood tests. Dissolve the effervescent tablet completely in a full glass of water (or as the label directs), wait for the fizzing to stop, and drink it after a meal. Do not swallow or chew the tablet whole. Children: as prescribed.
Interactions
Several medicines also raise potassium and together can cause dangerously high levels: potassium-sparing diuretics (Spironolactone, Eplerenone, Amiloride, Triamterene), ACE inhibitors (such as Enalapril, Ramipril), ARBs (such as Losartan), Finerenone, Trimethoprim, Heparin, Ciclosporin, Tacrolimus and NSAID painkillers. Do not use salt substitutes that contain potassium unless the doctor agrees.
Contraindications
- High blood potassium (hyperkalaemia).
- Severe kidney failure, or conditions where the body cannot remove potassium properly, such as untreated Addison’s disease.
- Severe dehydration, or alkalosis (blood too alkaline).
- Allergy to any ingredient.
Side Effects
Nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, wind, belching and diarrhoea are the most common, and are reduced by taking it well dissolved after food.
Get urgent medical help for: muscle weakness or heaviness in the legs, tingling or numbness, an irregular or slow heartbeat, confusion or fainting (signs of high potassium); or severe stomach pain, vomiting blood or black stools.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Potassium is a normal part of the body and of food. It can be used in pregnancy and breastfeeding when the doctor advises and blood levels are monitored.
Precautions and Warnings
- Regular blood tests for potassium and kidney function are needed.
- Take extra care in older people and in kidney disease, heart disease or diabetes.
- Tell the doctor if you have long-lasting vomiting or diarrhoea, or stop eating and drinking normally.
- Some effervescent tablets contain sodium; check with the doctor if you must limit salt.
Overdose
Too much potassium can cause dangerous heart rhythms and can be life-threatening. Seek emergency medical help at once if a large amount was taken or symptoms of high potassium appear.
Therapeutic Class
Potassium supplement (electrolyte replacement; urinary alkaliniser).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the tube tightly closed to protect the tablets from moisture.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.