potassium chloride and sodium chloride

What is the most important information I should know about potassium chloride and sodium chloride?

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

What is potassium chloride and sodium chloride?

Potassium is a mineral that is found in many foods and is needed for several functions of your body, especially the beating of your heart.

Sodium chloride is the chemical name for salt. Sodium is an electrolyte that regulates the amount of water in your body. Sodium also plays a part in nerve impulses and muscle contractions.

Potassium chloride and sodium chloride is a combination mineral supplement that may be helpful in reducing tiredness, muscle cramps, or heat prostration that can occur when you sweat more than usual. This product is often used for outdoor recreational activities performed in high heat, or indoors anywhere high temperatures can cause you to become overheated.

It is not certain whether potassium chloride and sodium chloride is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Potassium chloride and sodium chloride should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

Potassium chloride and sodium chloride may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking potassium chloride and sodium chloride?

• you have kidney disease; or
• you are on a low-salt diet.

Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have:

• high blood pressure;
• heart disease; or
• an ulcer or other problem in your stomach or esophagus.

How should I take potassium chloride and sodium chloride?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

The usual dose of potassium chloride and sodium chloride is 1 tablet taken 5 to 10 times per day.

You may need to adjust your dose based on the amount of heat to which you are exposed.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra potassium chloride and sodium chloride to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

What should I avoid while taking potassium chloride and sodium chloride?

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What are the possible side effects of potassium chloride and sodium chloride?

• dehydration symptoms --hot and dry skin, feeling very thirsty or hot, confusion, being unable to urinate; or
• high levels of potassium in your blood (hyperkalemia) --nausea, slow or unusual heart rate, muscle weakness, loss of movement.

Although not all side effects are known, potassium chloride and sodium chloride is thought to be likely safe for most people when used as directed.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect potassium chloride and sodium chloride?

Do not take potassium chloride and sodium chloride without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications:

• heart or blood pressure medication; or
• cold or allergy medicine that contains an antihistamine (Benadryl and others).

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with potassium chloride and sodium chloride, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about potassium chloride and sodium chloride.