Potassium Gluconate
Potassium Gluconate is a potassium supplement.
Group
Potassium supplement
Mechanism of Action
Supplies potassium required for normal cellular and neuromuscular function.
Dose Rates
Dogs
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Potassium supplementation | 0.5 mEq/kg | PO | Every 12–24 h | |
| Potassium supplementation | 2–44 mEq/animal | PO | Every 24 h | Broad body-size-dependent daily range; select using serum potassium and actual patient size. |
Cats
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Potassium supplementation | 1–4 mEq/animal | PO | Every 12 h | Equivalent to total 2-8 mEq/day; start and titrate according to serum potassium. |
| Potassium supplementation | 2–4 mEq/animal | PO | Every 24 h |
Indications
- Hypokalemia
- Potassium supplementation
Contraindications
- Renal impairment requires caution; avoid supplementation when potassium is excessive.
Interactions
- Other potassium sources, ACE inhibitors and potassium-sparing diuretics can increase hyperkalemia; account for digoxin and diuretic therapy.
Adverse effects
- Gastrointestinal irritation; hyperkalemia causes weakness, bradycardia, arrhythmias and arrest.
Toxicity
Excessive potassium can cause fatal cardiovascular toxicity. Excess oral potassium or impaired elimination can cause dangerous hyperkalemia. Stop supplementation and assess ECG, potassium and renal function.
Preparations
| Preparation | Form | Strength | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Potassium gluconate tablet 2 mEq potassium Reported approximately equates this presentation to 500 mg potassium gluconate. | Tablet | 2 mEq / tablet | PO |
| Kaon potassium gluconate elixir 20 mEq/15 mL Potassium equivalent; reported guidance gives 4.68 g gluconate per 15 mL. | Oral Liquid | 20 mEq / 15 mL | PO |
Monitoring and Administration
Adjust from serial potassium concentrations and renal function; use ECG monitoring when indicated.
Tumil-K powder instructions describe 1/4 teaspoon providing 2 mEq potassium per 4.5 kg in food twice daily. Bulk mass per teaspoon is not specified, so powder conversion is not inferred.