POTASSIUM CHLORIDE

The volume and rate of infusion will depend upon the requirements of the individual patient and 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.

Repeated measurements of plasma potassium are necessary to determine whether further infusions are necessary and to avoid the development of hyperkalaemia, this is especially liable to occur in renal failure. Continuous ECG monitoring is desirable.

The label states:

Rapid infusion may be harmful. Do not use unless the solution is clear and free from particles. 5 mmol potassium (500ml). Contains 27 mmol potassium (1000ml).

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