My husband takes potassium (K-Dur) twice a day because he is on Lasix and that depletes the body of potassium. He is also on Tracleer, and that can cause a need of additional potassium.
This is not a do it yourself project. Too much potassium can be bad for you, and too little can be bad for you. Your level has to be tested and the potassium adjusted accordingly.
My husband just went through a period when his potassium was way too high. He had to go on a low potassium diet for several days, and his potassium supplement was on hold. It all worked out, and now he is back on the supplement and on a regular low sodium diet.
People with impaired kidney function also have to be very careful of potassium and the level.
My husband's kidneys have been in failure in the past. They are OK now, but not perfect. His kidney function has to be monitored.
Right at the moment, he is on 40 MEQ twice daily, but has also been on 60 MEQ twice daily, and even 80 MEQ twice daily. His bloodwork determines his levels.
If you are on Lasix or any other diuretic which depletes potassium, you should ask your doctor if you need a potassium supplement. There are other diuretics like Aldactone that are potassium sparing, and do not need potassium.
Do not attempt to self-medicate.
Most foods have potassium anyway. Bananas, oranges, tomatoes, nuts--well the list is way too long. People's diets normally supply more than adequate potassium.
) But what are other indications?
