Potassium citrate is sold under the brand names Urocit-K and Twin-K, and helps to treat a kidney stone disorder called renal tubular acidosis. It prevents the formation of mineral crystals in the kidneys by binding to calcium in the urine. Potassium citrate is also used to replace potassium in the body and to decrease the acidity of urine that prevents uric acid from forming. It is important to take potassium citrate only as prescribed, as it has several dietary side effects.
Digestive Discomfort
Potassium citrate is available in liquid and tablet form. HealthLink BC advises that the liquid form in particular can cause common dietary side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and gas. To decrease these side effects take this medication with food, 30 minutes after eating or with plenty of water. Also avoid lying down for 30 minutes after taking the tablet. Indigestion may also occur when first starting a course of potassium citrate, but will decrease as the body becomes accustomed to it.
Urine Acidity
The American Academy of Pediatrics states that potassium citrate decreases the pH of urine to help prevent kidney stones and gout. However, the body can react to this medication and the acidity levels of urine may fluctuate. The pH of urine should be monitored while taking potassium citrate. A urine pH that is much lower than six or higher than seven can cause kidney stones to form. Your doctor may test the pH of urine to determine if changes in the dosage of medication are required.
Stomach Ulcers
To avoid stomach and digestive side effects such as stomach lining irritation, ulcers and indigestion, HealthLink BC recommends swallowing the tablet form of potassium citrate whole, without chewing, crushing or sucking the tablet. This is to avoid disrupting the protective coating of the tablet that helps to decrease side effects in the stomach. An overdose of potassium citrate should be immediately reported to a poison control center or emergency room.
Severe Side Effects
According to HealthLink BC, less common dietary side effects of potassium citrate include severe vomiting, unpleasant taste in the mouth and tarry or loose stools. This medication should not be taken if you have digestive and metabolic disorders such as peptic ulcers, acid reflux, uncontrolled diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, digestive blockages, ulcerative colitis Addison's disease or Crohn's disease, as it can worsen symptoms. Potassium citrate may also cause dietary side effects due to interactions with other medications and supplements. Talk to your doctor if you experience severe or unusual dietary symptoms or have concerns before taking potassium citrate and do not start, stop or change dosages without your doctor's recommendation.
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