potassium supplements
Last edited 02/2018 and last reviewed 08/2023
Potassium supplements should probably be tasted by doctors before they begin prescribing them as an alternative to other management of hypokalaemia. They taste disgusting, and are effervescent; these properties combine to render them strongly emetic.
The effervence is caused by bicarbonate, which worsens any associated alkalosis.
Slow K tablets are very large, and may cause GI ulceration; they should be taken with water when standing up.
Combination diuretics and potassium contain insufficient potassium to prevent significant hypokalaemia - 10 mmol instead of 40 to 60 mmol, and there is probably no rational indication for prescibing such drugs.