Micro-K
Generic name:potassium chloride
Dosage form: capsule, extended release
Drug class:Minerals and electrolytes
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Nov 22, 2021.
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U.S. Patent No. 4,259,315
Rx Only
P3511-4 06/05
The Micro-K brand name has been discontinued in the U.S. If generic versions of this product have been approved by the FDA, there may be generic equivalents available.
DESCRIPTION
Micro-K® Extencaps® Capsules and Micro-K® 10 Extencaps® Capsules are oral dosage forms of microencapsulated potassium chloride containing 600 and 750 mg, respectively, of potassium chloride, USP, equivalent to 8 and 10 mEq of potassium, respectively.
Dispersibility of potassium chloride (KCI) is accomplished by microencapsulation and a dispersing agent. The resultant flow characteristics of the KCI microcapsules and the controlled release of K+ ions by the microcapsular membrane are intended to avoid the possibility that excessive amounts of KCI can be localized at any point on the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract.
Each crystal of KCI is microencapsulated by a patented process with an insoluble polymeric coating which functions as a semi-permeable membrane; it allows for the controlled release of potassium and chloride ions over an eight-to ten-hour period. Fluids pass through the membrane and gradually dissolve the potassium chloride within the microcapsules. The resulting potassium chloride solution slowly diffuses outward through the membrane. Micro-K® and Micro-K® 10 are electrolyte replenishers. The chemical name of the active ingredient is potassium chloride and the structural formula is KCI. Potassium chloride, USP, occurs as a white, granular powder or as colorless crystals. It is odorless and has a saline taste. Its solutions are neutral to litmus. It is freely soluble in water and insoluble in alcohol.
The inactive ingredients are edible ink, ethylcellulose, FD&C Blue No. 2 aluminum lake, FD&C Yellow No. 6, gelatin, magnesium stearate, sodium lauryl sulfate, titanium dioxide. May contain FD&C Red No. 40 and Yellow No. 6 aluminum lakes.
