Potassium bicarbonate
Generic name: potassium bicarbonate [ poe-TAS-ee-um-bye-KAR-bo-nate ]
Brand names: Effer-K, Klor-Con/EF, K-Effervescent, K+Care ET, Effervescent Potassium, K-vescent
Dosage form: oral tablet, effervescent (10 mEq; 20 mEq; 25 mEq)
Drug class:Minerals and electrolytes
What is potassium bicarbonate?
Potassium is a mineral that is found naturally in foods and is necessary for the normal function of your heart, muscles, and nerves.
Potassium bicarbonate is used to treat or prevent low potassium (hypokalemia).
Potassium bicarbonate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use potassium bicarbonate if you also take a potassium-sparing diuretic such as amiloride, eplerenone, spironolactone, or triamterene.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use potassium bicarbonate if:
you have high levels of potassium in your blood; or
you also take a potassium-sparing diuretic such as amiloride, eplerenone, spironolactone, or triamterene.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have ever had:
heart problems, irregular heartbeats;
diabetes;
a severe burn injury;
an ulcer or other problems with your stomach or intestines;
Addison's disease (an adrenal gland disorder);
an allergic reaction to a product that contains potassium;
kidney disease; or
if you are dehydrated.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.
How should I take potassium bicarbonate?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Drop the effervescent tablet into a glass with at least 4 ounces of water. Allow the tablet to dissolve completely. Drink the liquid slowly, over 5 to 10 minutes.
Take your doses at regular intervals to keep a steady amount of potassium in your body at all times.
Take potassium bicarbonate with food or after a meal.
You may need frequent medical tests. Even if you have no symptoms, tests can help your doctor determine if potassium bicarbonate is effective.
You should not stop using potassium bicarbonate without first asking your doctor.
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