Normally, you get all of the potassium your body needs each day from the foods you consume. If your serum potassium levels fall below what is healthy, however, your doctor will likely prescribe potassium supplements. She will also talk to you about what to expect, such as potential reactions, while taking the supplements.
Indications
There are several conditions that increase your risk of a low potassium level, or hypokalemia. Excessive sweating, vomiting and/or diarrhea without adequate replacement of lost water and electrolytes leads to hyperkalemia. Any condition that alters your kidney function, and causes you to excrete more potassium than normal, also increases your risk. Bulimia and anorexia are eating disorders associated with low serum potassium levels. There are also some antibiotics and diuretic medications that increase your risk, as well.
Potential Reactions
Some side effects of potassium supplements include tingly hands and/or feet, a feeling of anxiety and a rash on your skin. Gastrointestinal reactions such as stomach upset diarrhea and vomiting are also potential reactions. Nausea is also a possibility. Although uncomfortable, these side effects are expected and not necessarily serious. Conversely, there are potentially more serious reactions to potassium you need to report to your doctor. These adverse effects include severe stomach cramping and pain, confusion, lethargy, unusual fatigue and feelings of heaviness of your legs. If you notice blood in your stools, or that your stools are black and have a tar-like appearance, report this to your doctor.
Potential Interactions
There are several medications contraindicated when taking potassium supplements, as the combination increases your likelihood of developing hyperkalemia -- an abnormally high potassium level. Your risk for hyperkalemia is particularly high if you have impaired kidney function and combine potassium with other incompatible medications. Avoid the use of nonsteroidal medications while taking potassium. Talk to your doctor about safer alternatives to manage pain. Your should also avoid combining potassium and ACE inhibitors, a class of medications doctors prescribe to manage diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and some kidney diseases. Beta-blocker medications to treat glaucoma, hypertension and migraines are also contraindications. Certain antibiotics are also off limits. Expect your doctor to review your medication profile and adjust it if is incompatible with potassium supplementation.
Hyperkalemia
A healthy serum potassium level is vital to overall good health. Therefore, your doctor will monitor your lab values closely during potassium supplementation and intervene quickly should your potassium levels rise too high. Between doctor visits, however, if you experience symptoms of this dangerous condition -- an abnormal heart rhythm or rate, muscle weakness, nausea and general weakness -- it is imperative that you notify your doctor immediately.
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