Your physician may prescribe amitriptyline to treat a number of conditions, including depression, but when you require a medical procedure, other medications prescribed during this time may react with it and trigger potassium deficiencies. Consult your physician about these interactions, and understand how to counteract this deficiency to maintain good health.
About Potassium
Your body requires approximately 4.7 grams of potassium each day, although you need slightly more while breastfeeding -- 5.1 grams. This mineral serves a critical role when it comes to muscle function, particularly as it relates to those used in your digestive system and your heart muscle. A study published in the August 2008 "Physiologica Plantarum," a Scandinavian medical journal, indicates that potassium may help to decrease high blood pressure and reduce the rate of death associated with cardiovascular disease.
About Amitriptyline
Amitriptyline is a medication prescribed to alleviate depression symptoms. As a tricyclic antidepressant, it increases natural substances in the brain that help to maintain mental balance. Your doctor may also recommend this drug to treat eating disorders, nerve damage triggered by shingles and headaches. Taking amitriptyline may cause drowsiness, and it is not recommended if you have a heart condition.
Amitriptyline and Potassium Deficiencies
Amitriptyline may cause a potassium deficiency when it's taken in conjunction with certain medications. Droperidol, a medication often used for its tranquilizing effects, is effective for easing nausea and vomiting during surgical procedures, so if your physician prescribes droperidol while you are also taking amitriptyline, understand that you may need extra potassium in your diet to counteract its effects.
Increasing Potassium Intake
You can boost your potassium intake by taking a supplement or multivitamin or you can get it from the foods in your diet. Supplements are available in capsules, powder, tablets and liquids. The foods highest in potassium include bananas, citrus juices, avocados, lima beans, potatoes, tomatoes and cantaloupe. You can also find potassium in animal sources such as cod, flounder, salmon, chicken and other meats.
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