Liquid potassium chloride is prescribed to treat low potassium when dietary changes do not produce a normal potassium level. Low potassium, or hypokalemia, can be serious, so taking prescribed medication is essential. Unfortunately, nausea is one of the most frequent side effects and can make complying with a medication plan difficult. In many cases, though, simple modifications can resolve or ease the nausea.
Taking Liquid Potassium Chloride
Potassium chloride is prescribed to normalize low potassium levels. Mayo Clinic reports that normal potassium levels lie between 3.6 and 4.8 mEq/L. Levels of 2.8 mEq/L or below are emergencies (ref. 3). Liquid potassium chloride has a pungent taste and is irritating to the stomach lining. Nausea from liquid potassium can be minimized by thoroughly mixing it in at least 4 oz. of cold juice or cold water, drinking it slowly over 10 minutes and taking it with or just after a snack/meal. Stand or sit upright for 30 minutes after taking it.(Ref. 1). Keep liquid potassium at room temperature and tightly sealed.
Potassium
When potassium chloride is taken as a concentrated oral solution, it can be very irritating to the lining of the stomach and portions of the intestine. Mild nausea tends to resolve in time when taken potassium is properly, but long-term use can lead to intense nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and even bleeding from the stomach. Thankfully, potassium comes in different forms. Potassium citrate, which is less irritating than potassium chloride, is just one alternative.
Diet and Potassium
When hypokalemia is mild, increasing your dietary potassium can normalize blood levels and let you avoid nausea and other potential side effects of liquid potassium. Meat, fish, dairy, nuts, and legumes are good sources of potassium. Vegetables high in potassium include broccoli, peas, potatoes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes and some types of squash. Fruits that are particularly high are oranges and other citrus fruits, bananas, apricots, and cantaloupe.
Low Potassium
Low potassium is frequently caused by eating disorders; excessive use of laxatives; prolonged vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration; Tylenol-like products; and some water pills. Muscle cramps, fatigue, and irregular heart rhythm are signs of low potassium. Unfortunately, the nausea and other side effects of liquid potassium compound the causes of the hypokalemia. Avoiding laxatives and Tylenol-containing medicine and drinking enough water can reduce the amount of liquid potassium needed and decrease potential side effects, including nausea.
High Potassium
Nausea is also a symptom of hyperkalemia, or high potassium. Medications that can increase potassium levels include types of blood pressure medicine, water pills, and anti-inflammatory medicine like Advil and Motrin. In addition to excess potassium supplements, kidney disease, injured muscles, diabetes, and adrenal disease can also cause hyperkalemia.
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