Potassium Salts oral solution

What is this medicine?

POTASSIUM (poe TASS i um) is a natural salt that is important for the heart, muscles, and nerves. It is found in many foods and is normally supplied by a well balanced diet. This medicine is used to treat patients who have low potassium.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with food. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure your dose. Household spoons are not accurate. Before taking this medicine mix your dose in a glass with 3 to 4 ounces of cold water or juice. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• anxious

• black, tarry stools

• breathing problems

• confusion

• irregular heartbeat

• numbness or tingling in hands or feet

• unusually weak or tired

• weakness, heaviness of legs

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea

• nausea

• upset stomach

• vomiting

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• eplerenone

• sodium polystyrene sulfonate

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• certain medicines for blood pressure or heart disease like lisinopril, losartan, quinapril, valsartan

• medicines for cold or allergies

• NSAIDs, medicines for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen

• other potassium supplements

• salt substitutes

• some diuretics

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Addison's disease

• dehydration

• diabetes

• heart disease

• history of high levels of potassium in the blood

• irregular heartbeat

• kidney disease

• recent severe burn

• stomach ulcers or other stomach problems

• an unusual or allergic reaction to potassium, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. You will need lab work done regularly.

You may need to be on a special diet while taking this medicine. Ask your doctor.

Side effects like stomach upset, nausea and diarrhea happen more when this medicine is not mixed properly or taken without food. Follow mixing instructions exactly each time you take a dose.