Potassium chloride is used to treat or prevent potassium deficiency. Potassium injectable solution is diluted with other fluids and is given intravenously (IV, in the vein) or subcutaneously (subQ, under the skin)
For: Many animal species
How it works: Potassium is a mineral that is found in many foods and is needed for many functions of your body, especially the beating of your heart. Potassium chloride is used to prevent or to treat low blood levels of potassium (hypokalemia). Potassium levels can be low as a result of a disease, from taking certain medicines, or after a prolonged illness with diarrhea or vomiting.
Dosage & Administration: Potassium injectable solutions must be diluted before they are given to an animal. Add the proper amount of the potassium solution to the other fluid according to your veterinarian's directions. Always use a new sterile syringe and needle when removing the potassium from the vial and adding it to the fluids. Do not touch the needle with your hands. When finished, place the needle and syringe in a puncture-resistant container. Follow your local regulations regarding disposal.
Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian.
This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.
Possible side effects of Potassium chloride: When given intravenously, potassium can be irritating to the veins.
If you miss giving a dose: If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.
If you overdose the pet: An overdose may result in vomiting, muscle weakness, abnormal heart rhythms, slow heart rate and a weak pulse.
If you know or suspect you pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any of these signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.
What should I avoid while giving Potassium chloride to my pet: Consult your veterinarian before using potassium injectable solution with any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, since interactions may occur.
High potassium levels may result if used with angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (e.g., enalapril or Enacard) or with potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone). Drug interactions can also occur with animals also receiving digoxin or NSAIDS (e.g., Rimadyl, Deramaxx, etc.).
Potassium injectable solutions are not compatible with injectable amphotericin B, diazepam (Valium), and phenytoin.
Who should not take it? Do not use in animals with hyperkalemia (high potassium blood levels), severe kidney disease, acute dehydration, untreated Addison's disease (hypoadrenocorticism), or hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells).
Use with caution in animals with heart disease, particularly those taking the medication digoxin.
Do not use in animals with severe or complete heart block who are taking digoxin.
Consult with your veterinarian regarding physical examinations and laboratory testing necessary prior to and during treatment with potassium injectable solutions.