The Side Effects Of Potassium Chloride Er

Potassium chloride is an electrolyte given to treat or prevent a potassium deficiency, medically known as hypokalemia. It is often prescribed along with a potassium-depleting diuretic. Potassium chloride ER is an extended release version of the electrolyte that is available by prescription. Like all medications, potassium chloride ER carries the risk of side effects.

Gastrointestinal Disturbances

Potassium chloride ER can cause gastrointestinal complaints. Common side effects include abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, according to the "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide." Less commonly, patients experience a gastrointestinal ulcer, bleeding or perforation. A bowel obstruction is also possible. Those affected should report stomach upset and diarrhea to the prescribing physician. Black, tarry stools are often due to gastrointestinal bleeding; the physician should be told at once if bowel movements are black or tar-like. Severe abdominal pain requires an urgent medical assessment due to the possibility of bowel perforation.

Hyperkalemia

Occasionally, a patient taking potassium chloride ER may develop hyperkalemia, or high blood potassium. Mild hyperkalemia may have no noticeable effects, but moderate to severe hyperkalemia may cause changes in heart rate and rhythm and muscle paralysis. A patient may notice tingling in the feet or hands or severe weakness as potassium levels rise. Rarely, uncontrolled hyperkalemia leads to death. Prescribing physicians generally check potassium levels of a patient taking potassium chloride on a regular basis to avoid this side effect. An EKG can reveal if high blood potassium is affecting the heart. The patient should alert the physician of any noted changes in heart rhythm or rate, weakness or tingling hands or feet.

Rash

Rarely, potassium chloride causes a noticeable skin rash, reports the National Library of Medicine. A patient should report any new skin rash to the prescribing physician.

Considerations

Patients should take potassium chloride ER with 8 oz. water or other beverage to lessen the risk of adverse effects. Taking it with meals can reduce the occurrence of stomach upsets. Drugs.com cautions not to crush or chew the medicine. Patients should keep all laboratory appointments for blood potassium level checks and alert the prescribing physician of any changes in their other prescription medications while taking potassium chloride ER.