KCL
Form: Injection
Strength: 1.5gm/10ml
Generic Name: Potassium Chloride
Company: Opsonin Pharma Limited
MRP:৳ 12.0 (Injection)
Is Antibiotic: No
Indications
KCL is used to replace potassium when the body has a shortage of KCL. KCL is also used to treat potassium loss caused by diuretics (medicines that help remove excess water), kidney problems, or gastrointestinal issues. KCL can also help with conditions like hypochloraemic alkalosis, which occurs with low potassium levels.
Pharmacology
KCL is used to treat potassium deficiency. Potassium is a key element in body cells and helps in many important processes. These include maintaining cell function, nerve signals, muscle contractions, and kidney health.
Dosage & Administration
Oral dose: KCL should be taken with or after meals with plenty of fluid like water or juice. A typical dose for preventing low potassium is up to 50 mmol (about 37.5 mL) daily. In mild cases of potassium deficiency, this dose may be enough, but higher doses may be needed for more severe deficiency.
Parenteral dose: For severe cases of low potassium, KCL may need to be given by injection into a vein (IV). A dose of 10 mL (1.5 gm or 20 mmol of potassium) can be added to 500 mL of saline or glucose solution and slowly given over 2 to 3 hours. KCL should be done with medical supervision, and regular potassium checks are needed to avoid high potassium levels, especially in patients with kidney issues.
Interaction
KCL may increase the risk of high potassium levels if taken with certain medications such as ACE inhibitors, cyclosporin, NSAIDs, beta-blockers, heparin, digoxin, or potassium-sparing diuretics.
Contraindications
KCL should not be used by people with hypersensitivity to potassium, conditions like hyperkalemic periodic paralysis, severe kidney failure, untreated Addison’s disease, or conditions that cause extensive cell damage like severe burns. KCL should not be used to treat potassium deficiency caused by metabolic acidosis.
Side Effects
Excessive potassium can cause high potassium levels, leading to symptoms like numbness, muscle weakness, paralysis, low blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, or even heart failure. Pain or inflammation can occur when injected into the veins. Oral doses can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach cramps.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally, no medications should be taken during the first trimester of pregnancy unless necessary. KCL is important to weigh the risks and benefits during pregnancy. There are no known issues with breastfeeding while taking potassium.
Precautions & Warnings
KCL should be used cautiously in people with kidney problems, heart disease, dehydration, severe burns, or those taking potassium-sparing diuretics. Too much potassium or using potassium salt substitutes can lead to dangerously high potassium levels, especially in people with kidney issues. If severe stomach issues like nausea or cramps occur, stop the treatment and consult a doctor.
Overdose Effects
Overdose may cause symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, black stools, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, confusion, or even loss of consciousness. Seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected.
Therapeutic Class
Electrolyte preparations, Oral electrolyte preparations.
Storage Conditions
Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Similar Brands of Potassium Chloride (Injection – 1.5gm/10ml)
| Brand Name | Form | Strength | Company | MRP (৳) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| K T | Injection | 1.5gm/10ml | Jayson Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 15.05 |