Potassium citrate is a crystalline salt with multiple uses in the beverage and medical industries. It is a mineral and one common means by which to obtain potassium. It also provides citrate, an important element in the treating of disease. Potassium citrate is clear, lightly yellow and has very little odor. It can cause irritation of the skin or eyes if splashed into them.
Function of Potassium
Potassium is necessary for human life. This electrolyte helps to keep the heartbeat regular and is needed by cellular enzymes throughout the body. It also assists the nerves in transmitting instructions to the muscles to contract. Potassium also is required by the body to maintain its fluid and electrolyte balance.
Function of Citrate
Citrate is a salt or ester of citric acid that assists in fatty acid synthesis. It is frequently paired with another agent, such as potassium or sodium.
Use as Beverage Additive
Potassium citrate is found in many of the soft drinks on the market today. It functions as a buffering agent to adjust the pH of the liquid.
Use as Medication
Potassium citrate is prescribed as a medication to treat a variety of illnesses. It is available as an oral solution and a tablet. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. The drug is available as an over-the-counter supplement, but should be taken under the supervision of a physician.
Potassium citrate is occasionally given for hypokalemia if potassium chloride is inappropriate for the patient. It may also be used to treat distal renal tubular acidosis and nephrolithiasis with hypocitraturia. The drug is occasionally given to treat other kidney disorders or gout.
Potential Side Effects
As with any drug, potassium citrate can produce a variety of side effects. These include irregular heartbeat; numbness and tingling in the mouth, hands or feet; muscular weakness; and stomach pain. A patient taking potassium citrate must be carefully monitored to avoid the blood level of potassium becoming too high, a potentially fatal condition known as hyperkalemia.
Who Should Avoid Potassium Citrate?
Potassium citrate is generally avoided by people with kidney failure, hyperkalemia, severe dehydration, uncontrolled diabetes, a stomach ulcer or Addison's disease. Alert your physician if you have any of these conditions prior to taking the drug.
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