Potassium and calcium gluconate are both mineral preparations, but the similarities end there. Each is given to address different mineral deficiencies, often arising from medical conditions. Always check with your doctor before taking either of these, because both could cause very real problems. For example, potassium could be potentially fatal in some patients with advanced kidney disease, and calcium gluconate can interfere with the absorption of certain drugs.
Calcium Gluconate
Calcium gluconate is one of many different calcium supplements. Others include calcium carbonate, calcium lactate, calcium citrate and calcium citrate malate. These supplements are not necessarily interchangeable as some are associated with particular medical conditions that cause hypocalcemia, or low serum calcium. Calcium gluconate can help boost calcium levels when the hypocalcemia is caused by dietary deficiencies or burns from hydrofluoric acid.
Chemical Burns
Calcium gluconate is the generally accepted remedy for burns from hydrofluoric acid. These burns are particularly insidious because the patient usually doesn't realize when he has been accidentally splashed. The fluorine atoms in hydofluoric acid bind to the calcium in tissues, dramatically lowering serum calcium levels. This is dangerous because serum calcium levels need to remain stable for nerves to function properly. Prompt treatment with calcium gluconate ointment prevents systemic toxicity.
Potassium
At least small amounts of potassium are found in almost every food. This mineral is so widespread that it is even found in tap water. High-potassium foods include broccoli, tomatoes, winter squashes, potatoes, prunes and raisins. The concentration of potassium in the blood must stay between 3.5 and 5.0 mEq/l. The kidneys remove excess potassium so that nerves can function properly.
Uses
Since potassium is so common, deficiencies due to dietary reasons are rare. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, is often associated with starvation, anorexia, alcoholism, congestive heart failure, and administration of thiazide diuretics or furosemide. Potassium is useful in treating such conditions. Since these are serious conditions, you should never self-medicate without letting your doctor know.
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