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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

POTASSIUM CHLORIDE EXTENDED-RELEASE TABLET - ORAL

(poh-TASS-ee-um KLOR-ide)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): K-Dur, Klor-Con M

USES: This medication is a mineral supplement used to prevent or treat low amounts of potassium in the blood. A normal level of potassium in the blood is important so that your cells, nerves, heart, muscles, and kidneys work properly. Most people would get enough potassium by eating a well-balanced diet. However, certain situations cause your body to lose potassium faster than you can replace it from your diet. These situations include treatment with certain "water pills" (diuretics), a poor diet, or certain medical conditions (such as severe diarrhea, especially with vomiting).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor.

To prevent stomach upset, take each dose with a meal and a full glass (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) of water or other liquid unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for 10 minutes after taking this medication. Do not take this medication on an empty stomach. Dividing your dose so that you can take smaller doses (2 to 4 times a day) may also reduce stomach upset. Consult your pharmacist for help with properly dividing your dose. Do not take more than 20 milliequivalents in a single dose.

Swallow this medication whole. Do not crush, chew, or suck on the tablets. Doing so may cause side effects.

If you have difficulty swallowing whole tablets, you may break the tablet in half and take each half separately, drinking a glass of water after each half-tablet. Take your entire dose within a few minutes. You may also dissolve the whole tablet in half a glass (4 ounces or 120 milliliters) of water. Allow about 2 minutes for the tablet to dissolve, then stir the mixture for 30 seconds and drink all of it immediately. Use a straw if desired. Add 1 more ounce (30 milliliters) of water to the glass, swirl, and drink immediately. Repeat one more time to make sure you are getting all of the drug. Do not save the mixture for future use. Do not use a liquid other than water for mixing this drug.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor may order blood tests (potassium levels) to find the right dose for you.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. Do not increase your dose or take it more often than prescribed. Too much potassium in the blood can cause serious side effects.

Tell your doctor if symptoms of low potassium blood levels (such as muscle weakness, tiredness, irregular heartbeat) persist or worsen.