Potassium phosphate is a medication that combines the electrolyte mineral potassium with the mineral phosphorus, also called phosphate. Your doctor may give you this medication if you have insufficient levels of either potassium or phosphate. Under specific circumstances, you may receive another medication that combines potassium phosphate with a substance called sodium phosphate.
Potassium Uses and Deficiencies
As an electricity-conducting electrolyte, potassium plays a vital role in the normal function of your heart and the contraction of both your voluntary skeletal muscles and your involuntary smooth muscles. In addition, every cell, organ and tissue in your body requires potassium to operate properly. You can develop a potassium deficiency if you eat too much sodium or salt, sweat excessively, vomit, experience diarrhea, eat a diet that's deficient in fruits or vegetables, or have a disorder that prevents proper nutrient absorption in your small intestine. Potential symptoms of low potassium, also called hypokalemia, include heartbeat irregularities, physical weakness, stomach problems and muscle cramps.
Phosphate Uses and Deficiencies
Along with calcium, you need phosphorus to maintain the integrity of your bones and teeth. You also need it to help your body use and stockpile energy, filter wastes in your kidneys, produce the DNA and RNA in your genes, regulate your body's use of various other nutrients, and grow, maintain and repair tissues and cells throughout your body. You can develop a phosphorus or phosphate deficiency if you have absorption problems in your small intestine, use medications such as diuretics or antacids, eat a nutrient-poor diet or have diabetes or alcoholism. Potential symptoms of low phosphorus, also called hypophosphatemia, include painful or fragile bones, joint stiffness, fatigue, breathing problems and unexplained weight changes.
Combined Medication Uses
In addition to using potassium phosphate to prevent or treat deficiencies, your doctor may prescribe a mixture of potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate to increase the effectiveness of an antibiotic called methenamine. In combination, these two substances also increase the acidity of your urine and reduce the amount of calcium in your urine. Together, these effects can help diminish rash and unusual odor associated with the buildup of urinary ammonium. While potassium phosphate comes in the form of injections and powders, combined potassium phosphate/sodium phosphate products are available in capsules and tablets.
Potential Side Effects
Potential side effects of potassium phosphate use include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Potentially life-threatening allergic reactions to this medication may include itching, fever, coughing, chest tightness, development of a blue skin color and swelling in the throat, lips, face or tongue. Get emergency help if you experience any of these reactions. Call your doctor if you experience additional problems that include dizziness, loss of conscious, rapid heartbeat, rash, abnormal bleeding or bruising, numbness, tingling, production of bloody or black stool, and severe diarrhea, nausea or vomiting. The combination of potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate can potentially produce very similar side effects and reactions, and may also require emergency assistance or contact with your doctor.
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