A 39-year-old member asked:
could you explain what is potassium chloride and is it lethal?
1 doctor answer • 1 doctor weighed in
Dr. James Cain answered
Nephrology and Dialysis 36 years experience
Essential mineral: Potassium (k) is an element, it is actually a metal and forms salts easily, much like sodium. Potassium is essential to the function of muscle and nerves via a biologic system of electrical potentials. When the k level outside the cell is too high your heart stops, when the k level is too low muscles freeze up. K levels are controlled by the kidneys, high k levels are frequent in renal failure.
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CA
A 28-year-old male asked:
What is the definition or description of: potassium chloride?
2 doctor answers • 2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Robert Binford answered
Thoracic Surgery 38 years experience
Potassium salt: Potassium chloride is medication that is often given to replace lost potassium. Potassium is a critical ingredient in the function of cells especially in the contraction of muscles including the heart.
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CA
A 28-year-old male asked:
Please describe the medication: potassium chloride?
2 doctor answers • 2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Michael Dansie answered
Family Medicine 16 years experience
Potassium Chloride: A supplement for people who do not have enough potassium in the body. This is caused by either taking drugs such as diuretics (water pills) or from certain diseases.
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A 31-year-old member asked:
Potassium chloride would go under what care plan?
1 doctor answer • 1 doctor weighed in
Dr. Jack Rubin answered
Nephrology and Dialysis 48 years experience
Potassium chloride: Patients would take Potassium Chloride (kcl) as a supplement to elevate low levels of potassium (k). It is also important to check the level of magnesium (m) of the person taking kcl as well. Patients with low m levels will not increase their k levels until m levels are normal.
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A 42-year-old member asked:
What to do if kaon-cl (potassium chloride) 20% meq q.d?
1 doctor answer • 1 doctor weighed in
Dr. Jack Rubin answered
Nephrology and Dialysis 48 years experience
Potassium chloride: You need to rephrase your question so that people on Healthtap can know what it is you are asking. The dose of potassium chloride is 20 mEq, not 20%mEq. Please resubmit a better question for a meaningful answer.
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A 40-year-old member asked:
What amount potassium chloride is fatal?
1 doctor answer • 2 doctors weighed in
A Verified Doctor answered
A US doctor answered Learn more
Potassium chloride: Potassium chloride can be safe or can be fatal, depending upon amount given or taken in a specified amount of time. If potassium deficit exists, then the body handles a large amount. If kidney failure exists, then the body cannot manage even a smaller dose. Usual diet is 3000-5000 grams of potassium per day.
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Last updated Apr 4, 2016
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