Potassium Chloride

IV potassium supplementation for hypokalemia in horses and small animals. Potassium replacement electrolyte (KCl). Provides potassium ions for correction of hypokalemia affecting cardiac and skeletal muscle function. IV potassium must be diluted and infused slowly (max 0.5 mEq/kg/hr) — rapid infusion causes fatal arrhythmias. Oral supplementation also available. Key information IV potassium: NEVER give undiluted IV bolus — fatal cardiac arrest. Maximum IV rate 0.5 mEq/kg/hr. Monitor ECG during IV administration. Oral supplementation is safer route.

IV: must be diluted in compatible IV fluids (NEVER administer undiluted IV). Infuse at maximum 0.5 mEq/kg/hr with continuous ECG monitoring. Oral supplement: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.

Hyperkalemia with too-rapid infusion or excessive dosing: cardiac arrhythmias, conduction disturbances, cardiac arrest. GI: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain (oral). Tissue necrosis with extravasation (concentrated solutions). Must always dilute and infuse at maximum 0.5 mEq/kg/hr.

For animals IV: must dilute in IV fluids — NEVER administer undiluted IV bolus (fatal cardiac arrest). Maximum infusion rate: 0.5 mEq/kg/hr. Monitor ECG during rapid or high-dose supplementation. Monitor serum potassium regularly. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Electrolyte — Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. after handling. IV form: administered by veterinary staff only. Keep out of reach of children (dangerous if ingested — cardiac effects).

This is a veterinary emergency. Potassium overdose causes cardiac arrest. Immediate emergency care required.