POTASSIUM CHLORIDE

The volume and rate of infusion will depend upon the requirements of the individual patient and the judgement of the physician. Adults The rate of infusion should not exceed 10-20 mmols of potassium per hour. The total daily dosage of potassium should not exceed 200 mmols of potassium.

Children Correspondingly reduced volumes and rates of infusion may be required. Elderly A reduced volume and rate of infusion may be necessary to avoid circulatory overload, particularly in patients with cardiac or renal insufficiency.

Method of Administration Solution for Infusion

Adverse effects are usually due to hyperkalaemia and include listlessness, mental confusion, parasthesiae, weakness, hypotension, arrhythmias and sometimes cardiac arrest. Thrombosis of the selected vein may occasionally occur.

Solution for infusion must be carried out slowly. Caution should be used with administration to patients receiving digitalis therapy, patients with renal or adrenal insufficiency, cardiac disease, acute dehydration or heat cramp, those receiving potassium sparing diuretics and patients with sickle cell haemoglobinopathy.

Caution should be exercised in the volume and rate of infusion since fluid overload and hyperkalaemia may compromise cardiac function. Before administering potassium by the intravenous route a non-potassium containing hydrating solution should be administered to ensure adequate renal function.

The label states:

Rapid infusion may be harmful. Do not use unless the solution is clear and free from particles. Contains 10 mmol Potassium (500 ml) Contains 20 mmol Potassium (1000 ml)

Addison's disease, adrenal insufficiency, acute or chronic renal disease, oliguria, anuria and patients with hyperkalaemia. The intravenous infusion of glucose solutions may also be hazardous in patients with impaired hepatic function.