Potassium chloride and Coumadin are commonly used drugs involved in the treatment of many different conditions. For example, if you were ever hooked up to an IV in a hospital, you probably received potassium chloride. If you were ever admitted with symptoms of a heart attack, you may have been given Coumadin. The Drugs.com database reports no interactions between potassium chloride and Coumadin.
Potassium Chloride Chemistry
Potassium chloride is chemically similar to sodium chloride, or table salt. Both metal halides naturally form cubic crystals that have a salty taste. While sodium chloride is formed from the positively charged sodium ion and the negatively charged chlorine ion, potassium chloride is formed from the positively charged potassium ion and the negative chlorine atom.
Potassium Chloride Uses
Potassium chloride is used as a salt substitute and a potassium supplement. Since potassium is a electrolyte in the blood, potassium chloride is included in IV solutions to replenish electrolytes.
Potassium deficiencies are rarely due to dietary deficits because potassium is found in most foods and water. Such deficiencies are more commonly observed as a consequence of starvation, diarrhea or diuretic drug use.
Coumadin
Coumadin is the brand name for warfarin. Although it is often called a blood thinner, this name is not accurate because Coumadin doesn't change the consistency of the blood. Instead, Coumadin deactivates proteins involved in blood clotting. Doctors prescribe Coumadin when patients are at risk of blood clots. These patients include people with indwelling catheters, and those who have undergone hip surgery or major gynecologic surgery.
Coumadin Interactions
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns patients that Coumadin can cause life-threatening bleeding. Patients should let their doctors know immediately if they experience any abnormal bleeding, including vaginal bleeding, nosebleeds, bloody gums or blood in the stool. It interacts with many drugs, herbs and spices, including ginseng, ginger, garlic, danshen, dong quai, garlic and St. John's wort, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, aspirin, antacids, laxatives and common cold remedies. Patients should also avoiding eating grapefruit and cranberry products.
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