Question 1

What is Potassium Chloride (Kato) used for?

Accepted Answer

Hypokalemia
Prevention of Hypokalemia

Question 2

What is the most important information I should know about Potassium Chloride (Kato)?

Accepted Answer

You should not use potassium chloride if you are allergic to it, or if you have: Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice. Some forms of potassium chloride are not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

high blood levels of potassium (hyperkalemia); or
if you take a potassium-sparing diuretic such as amiloride, eplerenone, spironolactone, or triamterene.

heart problems such as congestive heart failure or "AV block";
a large tissue injury such as a severe burn;
an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of sodium or high levels of chloride in your blood);
too much acid in your body (acidosis);
trouble swallowing;
stomach disorder;
bleeding, ulcer, obstruction, or perforation (a hole or tear) in your stomach or intestines;
severe dehydration;
cirrhosis or other liver disease; or
kidney disease.

Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:

Question 3

Can I take Potassium Chloride (Kato) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Question 4

How to take Potassium Chloride (Kato)?

Accepted Answer

Use Potassium Chloride (Kato) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed. Your dose needs may change if you switch to a different brand, strength, or form of this medicine. Avoid medication errors by using exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Potassium chloride is taken by mouth. oral Potassium chloride is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection when you have severely low potassium levels or if you are unable to take medicine by mouth. injection Tell your medical caregivers if you feel any burning or pain when potassium chloride is injected. injection If you are unable to swallow a tablet or capsule whole, read and carefully follow the instructions provided to you on how to prepare and take this medicine. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions. Measure with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon). liquid medicineMix the oral solution, powder, or granules with least 4 ounces of cold water before taking it. You may need to follow a special diet. Follow all instructions of your doctor or dietitian. Learn about the foods you should eat or avoid. You may need frequent medical tests, even if you have no symptoms. Your heart function may need to be checked using an electrocardiograph or ECG (sometimes called an EKG). Part of an shell may appear in your stool, but this will not make the medicine less effective. extended-release tablet Take potassium chloride with food if the medicine upsets your stomach. oral Take the with a full glass of water or other liquid. tablet or capsuleDo not take the medicine on an empty stomach. Swallow the whole and do not crush, chew, break, or suck on it. extended-release tablet or capsule Doses are based on weight in children and teenagers. Your child's dose may change if the child gains or loses weight. Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the bottle tightly closed and away from light when not in use. liquid medicine

Question 5

What happens if I overdose on Potassium Chloride (Kato)?

Accepted Answer

If you think you or someone else may have overdosed Potassium Chloride (Kato) call your doctor or the Poison Control center '800-222-1222','(800) 222-1222','Poison Control' If someone collapses or isn't breathing after taking Diclofenac (Voltaren), call 911

Question 6

What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Potassium Chloride (Kato)?

Accepted Answer

Do not take potassium supplements, use salt substitutes, or other products that contain potassium unless your doctor has told you to.

Question 7

What are the side effects of Potassium Chloride (Kato)?

Accepted Answer

Get emergency medical help if you have : hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. signs of an allergic reaction Call your doctor at once if you have: Some side effects may occur during the injection. Tell your medical caregiver if you feel dizzy, nauseated, light-headed, itchy, sweaty, or have a headache, chest tightness, back pain, trouble breathing, or swelling in your face. Common side effects may include: This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

chest pain, trouble breathing;
skin rash;
headache, nausea, tiredness, seizure;
severe vomiting, stomach pain or irritation, bloating;
high blood potassium--nausea, weakness, tingly feeling, chest pain, irregular heartbeats, loss of movement;
signs of an electrolyte imbalance--increased thirst or urination, constipation, muscle weakness, leg cramps, numbness or tingling, feeling jittery, fluttering in your chest;
fluid retention--shortness of breath (even while lying down), swelling, rapid weight gain (especially in your face and midsection); or
signs of stomach bleeding--bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

nausea, vomiting, diarrhea; or
gas, stomach pain or discomfort.