Potassium Supplements And Nsaids

The combination of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDS, and potassium supplements can be a deadly cocktail. NSAIDs can increase the level of potassium in your blood, leading to kidney problems and other potentially fatal complications. You probably have at least one type of NSAID in your medicine cabinet. Aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen are all NSAIDs. Some NSAIDs, including etodolac, nabumetone and salsalate, are available only by prescription. High doses of ibuprofen and naproxen are also available by prescription. Do not take potassium supplements along with NSAIDs unless your doctor directs you to do so, and discuss the use of all supplements, including potassium, with your doctor.

NSAIDs

NSAIDs provide effective pain relief, but you should not take them while taking potassium supplements. In his book "Diseases of the Kidney and Urinary Tract," Dr. Robert W. Schrier writes that even in healthy people with no history of kidney impairment, NSAIDs can reduce kidney function and impair the ability to process potassium. Dr. Schrier is the former chairman of the Department of Medicine at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. NSAIDS can reduce your body's production of renin, a protein that controls the release of aldosterone, a hormone. Low aldosterone levels can reduce the amount of potassium excreted in your urine, allowing it to build up in your blood.

Potassium

Your kidneys normally excrete excess potassium in your urine, but taking potassium supplements along with NSAIDs can cause potassium to build up in your body faster than your kidneys can remove it. Your body needs potassium in order to function. The mineral plays a key role in cell development, muscle contractions, heart health and digestion. Potassium deficiency is rare, although your levels may be low if you have irritable bowel syndrome or use certain types of medication, including laxatives, antacids, insulin or thiazide, or loop diuretics. MedlinePlus recommends that adults receive 4.6 g of potassium each day. If you eat a well-balanced diet, filled with fruits, vegetables and whole grains, you will likely have no need for potassium supplements.

Hyperkalemia

Hyperkalemia is a condition that occurs when too much potassium is in your blood. You are more likely to develop hyperkalemia if you are over age 60 because as you age, your kidneys become less efficient. NSAIDs can cause hyperkalemia, and the condition can be worsened by the use of potassium supplements. In the March 2010 issue of the "Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology," Dr. Matthew Weir writes that if your kidney function is otherwise normal, treating hyperkalemia can be as simple as reducing dietary consumption of potassium and eliminating the use of NSAIDS. Dr. Weir is the director of the Division of Nephrology in the Department of Medicine at the University of Maryland Hospital. If you have heart or kidney disease, treatment may require dialysis, intravenous medication or hospitalization.

Considerations

Complications from NSAIDs and potassium supplements are more likely to occur if you already have an underlying condition such as heart disease or a kidney disorder. If you think that you have a potassium deficiency, consult with your doctor and have a blood test to determine if a deficiency truly exists. Never combine NSAIDs with potassium supplements without first consulting with your physician.