Potassium bicarbonate and potassium chloride

Generic name: potassium bicarbonate and potassium chloride [ poe-TASS-ee-um-bye-KAR-boe-nate-and-poe-TASS-ee-um-KLOR-ide ]
Brand names: Effervescent Potassium/Chloride, Klorvess Effervescent, K-Lyte/Cl, K-Lyte/Cl 50
Dosage form: oral tablet, effervescent (25 mEq)
Drug class: Minerals and electrolytes

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jun 28, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is potassium bicarbonate and potassium chloride?

Potassium bicarbonate and potassium chloride is a combination mineral product that used to treat or prevent low blood levels of potassium (hypokalemia) in people who do not get enough potassium from food.

potassium bicarbonate and potassium chloride is also used to treat hypokalemia caused by certain medicines or medical conditions (such as congestive heart failure, cirrhosis, a hormone imbalance, kidney problems, or severe diarrhea).

Potassium bicarbonate and potassium chloride may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Follow all directions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use this medicine if you have:

• high levels of potassium in your blood (hyperkalemia);

• chronic kidney failure (or if you are on dialysis);

• diabetic acidosis;

• Addison's disease (an adrenal gland disorder);

• a large tissue injury such as a severe burn;

• if you are dehydrated; or

• if you take a diuretic (water pill) such as amiloride, spironolactone, or triamterene.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have ever had:

• kidney disease;

• heart disease or high blood pressure;

• a medical condition that affects your esophagus, stomach, or intestines.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant.

You should not breastfeed while using potassium bicarbonate and potassium chloride.

Not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I take potassium bicarbonate and potassium chloride?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Take this medicine with food or just after a meal.

Do not chew the effervescent tablet or swallow it whole.

Dissolve the effervescent tablet in at least 4 ounces of water or fruit juice. When the tablet has dissolved completely, drink the mixture slowly over 5 to 10 minutes. Add more water to the glass, swirl and drink.

You may need frequent medical tests. Even if you have no symptoms, tests can help your doctor determine if this medicine is effective.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep each tablet in the foil pouch until you are ready to take a dose.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking potassium bicarbonate and potassium chloride?

Do not use other potassium supplements or salt substitutes, unless your doctor has told you to.

potassium bicarbonate and potassium chloride side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Potassium bicarbonate and potassium chloride may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe heartburn or stomach irritation; or

• high blood potassium--nausea, weakness, tingly feeling, chest pain, irregular heartbeats, loss of movement.

Common side effects of potassium bicarbonate and potassium chloride may include:

• upset stomach, nausea, vomiting; or

• diarrhea.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect potassium bicarbonate and potassium chloride?

Other drugs may affect potassium bicarbonate and potassium chloride, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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