K-Lyte Side Effects
Generic name: potassium bicarbonate / potassium citrate
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 6, 2023.
Note: This document contains side effect information about potassium bicarbonate / potassium citrate. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name K-Lyte.
Applies to potassium bicarbonate / potassium citrate: oral tablet effervescent.
You should not use this medication if you have kidney failure, Addison’s disease, severe burns or other tissue injury, if you are dehydrated, if you take certain diuretics (water pills), or if you have high levels of potassium in your blood (hyperkalemia).
Do not chew the effervescent tablet or swallow it whole. It must be dissolved in water or fruit juice before you take it.
Avoid lying down for at least 30 minutes after you take this medication.
Take this medication with food or just after a meal.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood may need to be tested often. Your heart rate may also be checked using an electrocardiograph or ECG (sometimes called an EKG) to measure electrical activity of the heart. This test will help your doctor determine how long to treat you with potassium. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.
Serious side effects of potassium include uneven heartbeat, muscle weakness or limp feeling, severe stomach pain, and numbness or tingling in your hands, feet, or mouth.
Do not stop taking this medication without first talking to your doctor. If you stop taking potassium suddenly, your condition may become worse.
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using this medication and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
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confusion, anxiety, feeling like you might pass out;
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uneven heartbeat;
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extreme thirst, increased urination;
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leg discomfort;
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muscle weakness or limp feeling;
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numbness or tingly feeling in your hands or feet, or around your mouth;
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severe stomach pain, ongoing diarrhea or vomiting;
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black, bloody, or tarry stools; or
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coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
Less serious side effects of potassium bicarbonate / potassium citrate may include:
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mild nausea or upset stomach;
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mild or occasional diarrhea; or
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slight tingling in your hands or feet.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.
More about K-Lyte (potassium bicarbonate / potassium citrate)
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.
