Hypokalemia is a condition marked by low levels of potassium in the blood. Potassium is essential for life. Although a temporary minor decrease in potassium levels may only cause you to feel tired, a sustained or substantial decrease can be quite serious, causing abnormalities in your heart rhythms, paralysis, kidney damage or possibly even death.
Diuretics
Diuretics are medications that cause an increase in urine production and are often prescribed for high blood pressure and fluid retention (edema). Some diuretics that can cause low potassium levels include furosemide (Lasix), acetozolamide, etharcinic acid, chlorthalodone, hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), bumetanide, indapamide, metolazone and torsemide, according to the University of Kentucky Medical Center. If you take a diuretic, your doctor will probably prescribe a potassium supplement, or may change your prescription to a potassium-sparing diuretic.
Antibiotics
Some antibiotics can cause low potassium levels. These include amphotericin B, carbenicillin and gentamicin, according to Penn State Hershey Medical Center.
Laxatives
When laxatives are overused to the point that they cause diarrhea, the resulting diarrhea can cause potassium levels to become too low. If you suffer from chronic constipation, talk with your doctor rather than self-treating with laxatives.
Black Licorice
Black licorice contains a compound called glycyrrhizic acid. Certain herbal medications contain black licorice. According to Penn State Hershey Medical Center, eating large amounts of black licorice or products made with black licorice, such as herbal teas or certain tobacco products, may cause low potassium levels.
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