Potassium Gluconate



Glu-KŪ[OTC]







Potassium Gluconate

(poe TASS ee um GLOO coe nate)

U.S. Brand Names
Glu-KŪ[OTC]
Pharmacologic Category
Electrolyte Supplement, Oral
Reasons not to take this medicine
  • Do not use orally if there is an intestinal blockage, slow moving gastrointestinal tract, or slow stomach emptying.
  • If you have an allergy to potassium gluconate or any other part of this medicine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
  • If you have any of the following conditions: Addison's disease, high potassium levels, or kidney disease.
What is this medicine used for?
  • This medicine is used to return potassium to the body.
How does it work?
  • Potassium maintains good organ function.
How is it best taken?
  • Take this medicine with food.
  • Drink plenty of noncaffeine-containing liquid unless told to drink less liquid by healthcare provider.
  • Mix liquid with cup of water.
  • A liquid (elixir) is available if you cannot swallow pills.
  • Those who have feeding tubes can also use the liquid. Flush the feeding tube before and after medicine is given.
What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)
  • Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
  • Do not take a double dose or extra doses.
  • Do not change dose or stop medicine. Talk with healthcare provider.
What are the precautions when taking this medicine?
  • Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.
  • If water pill is stopped, potassium will usually be stopped too. Talk with healthcare provider.
  • Avoid potassium-containing salt substitutes, potassium-sparing diuretics, and potassium supplements.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
What are some possible side effects of this medicine?
  • Belly pain.
  • Nausea or vomiting. Small frequent meals, frequent mouth care, sucking hard, sugar-free candy, or chewing sugar-free gum may help.
  • Diarrhea.
What should I monitor?
  • Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?
  • Check blood work (potassium). Talk with healthcare provider.
  • Take good care of your teeth. See a dentist regularly.
Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately
  • If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center immediately or dial 911.
  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Weakness, numbness, or tingling.
  • Severe nausea or vomiting.
  • Severe diarrhea.
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding.
  • Any rash.
  • No improvement in condition or feeling worse.
How should I store this medicine?
  • Store at room temperature.
  • Protect tablets from moisture. Do not store in a bathroom or kitchen.
General statements
  • If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.
  • Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
  • Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.
Brand Names: