Potassium Salts

What are potassium salts?

Potassium salts are also called electrolytes or electrolyte salts, and include potassium chloride, potassium gluconate, and potassium acetate (brand names: K- G Elixir®, Kaon®, Kaylixir®, Kocura®, Onixol®, Potasoral®, Potassium-Rougier®, Renakare®, Sopa-K®, Tumil-K®, Ultra- K®, Klor-Con®, K-Tab®, K-dur®, K-Sol®).

They are used off label (extra label) to treat low potassium levels (hypokalemia) in cats and dogs. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. 

“Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How are potassium salts given?

• Potassium salt is given by mouth in the form of a tablet, powder, gel, or liquid solution. It can also be given as an injection by your veterinarian in the hospital setting
• Measure all doses carefully, as overdoses of this medication can have serious consequences.
• Give potassium salt with food to help prevent stomach upset.

This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 hours; however, effects may not be noted outwardly, and laboratory tests may be needed to evaluate this medication’s effectiveness.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

Potassium salts may cause the following side effects:

• Nausea or abdominal discomfort

Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving potassium salts and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Muscle weakness
• Severe vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Blood in the stool
• Blood in vomit
• Collapse

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE forms given by mouth in pets with gastrointestinal movement problems.

DO NOT USE potassium salts in pets that have:

• High potassium levels
• Urination problems
• Tissue damage
• Uncontrolled Addison’s disease
• Dehydration.

USE WITH CAUTION in pets that:

• Are using digoxin
• Have acid-base imbalance
• Have kidney disease
• Have stomach ulcers
• Have heart disease
• Are pregnant or lactating (use is likely safe if the dose is appropriate)

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Several medications should be used with caution when given with potassium salts, including:

• Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
• Angiotensin receptor blockers
• Antimuscarinics
• Digoxin
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Potassium-sparing diuretics

Certain medications may interact with potassium salts, so be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Before starting this medication, kidney and heart function should be assessed.
• Depending on the reason for therapy, other monitoring may include potassium levels, other electrolyte levels, acid-base status, blood sugar levels, electrocardiogram (ECG) to monitor heart rhythms, blood cell counts, and urinalysis.
• Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store potassium salts?

• Store potassium salts at room temperature between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C)
• Protect the potassium salts from light unless otherwise noted on the label.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.