{"product_id":"potassium-citrate-er-tablets-10meq-by-zydus-pharma-100-count","title":"Potassium Citrate Tablets 10mEq Extended Release By Zydus 100 Count (RX)","description":"\u003ch1\u003ePotassium Citrate ER Tablets (10 mEq)\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotassium citrate is a potassium salt that delivers both potassium and citrate. The extended‐release (ER) tablet slowly releases these ions in the gut. Citrate is metabolized to bicarbonate, producing an alkali load that \u003cstrong\u003eraises blood and urine pH\u003c\/strong\u003e. In practice, potassium citrate helps neutralize acid in the body and urine and supplies potassium (to correct or prevent hypokalemia). Its net effect is to make the urine less acidic, which reduces formation of acid‐related kidney stones. Potassium citrate ER is available as 5, 10 or 15 mEq tablets (10 mEq ≈ 1080 mg salt). It is a prescription drug (brand name Urocit‐K and generics) typically taken by mouth with meals and a full glass of water to minimize gastrointestinal irritation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eUses (Indications)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotassium citrate extended‐release is used primarily to prevent and treat certain metabolic and urinary conditions:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRenal tubular acidosis (RTA)\u003c\/strong\u003e – Particularly type I (distal) RTA, often associated with calcium kidney stones. By providing alkali (citrate\/bicarbonate), it corrects the acidosis and helps dissolve or prevent stone formation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHypocitraturic calcium nephrolithiasis\u003c\/strong\u003e – In patients who form calcium-oxalate stones due to low urinary citrate (“hypocitraturia”), potassium citrate raises urinary citrate and pH, reducing stone formation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUric acid stones (and gout)\u003c\/strong\u003e – Potassium citrate alkalinizes urine so guanine-type uric acid is more soluble. It is indicated for uric acid nephrolithiasis (with or without calcium stones). In gout or hyperuricemia, alkalinizing the urine can help reduce uric acid crystallization.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePrevent recurrence of kidney stones\u003c\/strong\u003e – More generally, patients with recurrent calcium or uric acid stones due to acidic urine or low citrate often use potassium citrate for prevention.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOther uses include treating systemic acidosis (e.g. from chronic diarrhea) and sometimes adjunctive therapy in metabolic conditions (always under physician guidance). Some sources note use to help prevent gout attacks (by alkalinizing blood\/urine). (It is \u003cem\u003enot\u003c\/em\u003e effective against infections or systemic fungal disease; its role is metabolic.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMechanism of Action\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotassium citrate works as a systemic \u003cstrong\u003ealkalinizer\u003c\/strong\u003e. The citrate ion is absorbed and converted to bicarbonate, providing an alkaline load. This raises blood bicarbonate and urine pH. Higher urinary pH and citrate have several effects:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIncreased urinary citrate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Citrate normally complexes with calcium. Potassium citrate therapy increases urinary citrate by altering renal handling of citrate. The extra citrate binds calcium in the urine, lowering “ionized” calcium and inhibiting crystallization of calcium salts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigher urine pH:\u003c\/strong\u003e By making urine more alkaline, potassium citrate reduces the supersaturation of uric acid (which is more soluble as urate at higher pH) and also helps dissolve some calcium salts. In effect, the urine becomes less conducive to calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, and uric acid stone formation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePotassium repletion:\u003c\/strong\u003e Each tablet also delivers potassium. This prevents or corrects hypokalemia that often accompanies RTA or diuretic use (though RTA type I usually causes calcinosis, not hypokalemia; type II or other causes may).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn summary, potassium citrate provides alkali and citrate to \u003cstrong\u003erestore normal urinary citrate (\u0026gt;320 mg\/day) and a target pH of ~6.0–7.0\u003c\/strong\u003e. This makes urine less acidic and less likely to precipitate stone-forming crystals. (As an example of dosing effect, 60 mEq\/day of potassium citrate raises urinary citrate by ~400 mg\/day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDosage and Administration\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTypical dosing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Adults often require total daily doses in the range of \u003cstrong\u003e30–60 mEq per day\u003c\/strong\u003e, divided with meals. For example, severe hypocitraturia (urinary citrate \u0026lt;150 mg\/day) may be treated with \u003cstrong\u003e60 mEq\/day\u003c\/strong\u003e (such as 20 mEq three times daily or 30 mEq twice daily), according to official guidelines. Milder cases may use \u003cstrong\u003e30 mEq\/day\u003c\/strong\u003e (e.g. 10 mEq three times daily or 15 mEq twice daily). The 10 mEq ER tablets make it easy to combine multiple tablets per dose. (Because this is an ER form, high single doses are possible, but splitting doses improves tolerability; e.g. 20 mEq = two 10-mEq tablets.)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdministration:\u003c\/strong\u003e Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water; do not chew, crush, or suck on them. Take with or shortly after meals or bedtime snacks to reduce stomach upset. Doses should be evenly spaced (e.g. morning and evening, or thrice daily) to maintain steady urinary alkalinization. Do \u003cem\u003enot\u003c\/em\u003e take more often than prescribed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpecial instructions:\u003c\/strong\u003e Encourage a low-sodium diet and high fluid intake (aim for ≥2 liters urine output\/day) while on therapy . High fluids and low salt optimize stone prevention. The goal is to gradually restore urinary citrate above ~320 mg\/day and achieve a urine pH in the 6–7 range.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDose adjustments:\u003c\/strong\u003e Renal impairment: Do \u003cem\u003enot\u003c\/em\u003e use potassium citrate in significant kidney failure (GFR \u0026lt;0.7 mL\/kg·min)) because the kidneys cannot excrete extra potassium. No specific dose reduction is given other than avoidance. In mild to moderate renal insufficiency, use with caution and monitor potassium closely. Pediatrics: Safety and dosing in children have not been established – pediatric formulations (syrup or powder) are used instead of adult ER tablets.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlways follow the prescribing information or physician’s orders. Do not self-titrate. Therapy is often long-term. Treatment is stopped if goals are reached or if contraindications arise.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSide Effects and Safety\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGastrointestinal:\u003c\/strong\u003e The most common side effects are GI-related. Because the tablets are alkaline salts, they can irritate the gastrointestinal lining. Patients may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or abdominal discomfort. Starting with smaller doses or taking with food\/liquid usually alleviates these. Rarely, the tablets can ulcerate the esophagus or stomach if not swallowed properly. Symptoms like difficulty swallowing, throat pain, heartburn or GI bleeds have been reported. To minimize risk, always take with plenty of water, remain upright, and do not crush the tablet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHyperkalemia:\u003c\/strong\u003e Because this drug provides potassium, it can cause high blood potassium (hyperkalemia) if potassium excretion is impaired. Warning symptoms include muscle weakness, tingling or irregular heartbeat. Hyperkalemia has on occasion led to cardiac arrest. \u003cstrong\u003ePotassium citrate should never be used in patients with preexisting hyperkalemia or conditions limiting potassium excretion\u003c\/strong\u003e (e.g. chronic renal failure, uncontrolled diabetes, Addison’s disease, severe dehydration). If hyperkalemia occurs, stop the drug. Patients should have periodic lab tests (potassium, bicarbonate, creatinine) to monitor for rising levels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAllergic and other reactions:\u003c\/strong\u003e True allergic reactions are rare but possible. Report any rash, itching, hives or swelling. Other uncommon effects include dizziness or weakness. High doses of potassium citrate have occasionally been linked to \u003cstrong\u003elead to GI bleeding or perforation\u003c\/strong\u003e if a tablety fragment lodges in the bowel, so persistent abdominal pain or vomiting should prompt medical evaluation. If any severe signs occur (e.g. dark stools, bloody vomit, severe abdominal pain), discontinue medication and seek help.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePregnancy and lactation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Use only if clearly needed. Animal studies are lacking; human data are insufficient. Pregnancy category is not clearly established. Because sodium bicarbonate and potassium citrate sources can affect acid\/base balance, this should only be used under medical supervision in pregnancy. Potassium is excreted in breast milk in amounts roughly proportional to blood levels – nursing mothers should use caution and consult a doctor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall, the ER tablets are usually well tolerated if used correctly. Staying hydrated and following dosing instructions greatly reduce side effects. Chronic high doses (much above 60–90 mEq\/day) increase risk of GI upset and hyperkalemia..\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eContraindications and Precautions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContraindications:\u003c\/strong\u003e Do \u003cem\u003enot\u003c\/em\u003e use potassium citrate if you have any existing \u003cstrong\u003ehyperkalemia\u003c\/strong\u003e or conditions that predispose to it (advanced kidney failure, untreated Addison’s disease, severe ascites, acute dehydration, crush injuries, etc.). Also avoid in \u003cstrong\u003erenal insufficiency\u003c\/strong\u003e (markedly reduced GFR). Active urinary tract infection is a contraindication because infection can acidify urine and promote struvite stones. Avoid if you have delayed GI transit, e.g. strictures, obstruction or severe gastroparesis or active peptic ulcer disease, as ER tablets can get stuck and irritate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInteractions:\u003c\/strong\u003e Combining potassium citrate with other agents that raise potassium can cause dangerous hyperkalemia. Avoid concomitant use of potassium‐sparing diuretics (e.g. spironolactone, eplerenone, amiloride, triamterene). Also use caution (and monitor labs) if on \u003cstrong\u003eACE inhibitors, ARBs or NSAIDs\u003c\/strong\u003e, since these can increase serum potassium. Do not use with other potassium supplements, potassium-containing salt substitutes or potassium mesylate\/phosphate without close supervision – additive effects can push K too high. Certain drugs that slow gut motility (anticholinergics, some antihistamines) can exacerbate GI irritation by keeping the tablet in the esophagus\/stomach longer. If taking any multiple medications, inform your doctor as others (e.g. digoxin, beta-blockers, some anti-arrhythmics) may interact indirectly via potassium shifts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonitoring:\u003c\/strong\u003e Patients on long-term therapy should have periodic blood tests (electrolytes including K, bicarbonate, creatinine) and possibly EKGs. If any dose increases are made (e.g. to reach stone prevention goals), repeat labs to avoid asymptomatic hyperkalemia. If kidney function worsens or potassium rises, the drug must be stopped. Also monitor blood count if used very long-term (rare cases of blood dyscrasias have been reported).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDietary precautions:\u003c\/strong\u003e The prescribing info advises a low-sodium diet to enhance citrate retention. Patients should avoid high-potassium foods or salt substitutes while taking this drug, unless their doctor has directed otherwise. Drinking plenty of fluids (water) is essential to flush the kidneys.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSummary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotassium citrate ER (10 mEq tablets) is an alkalinizing potassium supplement used mainly for kidney stone prevention and RTA management. By raising blood\/urine pH and urinary citrate, it reduces calcium and uric acid stone formation. Typical adult regimens involve 10–20 mEq per dose, 2–3 times daily with meals. Side effects are primarily GI upset (nausea, diarrhea); serious toxicity stems from \u003cstrong\u003ehyperkalemia\u003c\/strong\u003e if used improperly. To use it safely, take the ER tablets whole with water, follow dosing instructions, and have periodic lab monitoring. It should not be used in those with high baseline potassium or severe renal insufficiency.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Zydus Pharmaceuticals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53723003519344,"sku":"68382-0537-01","price":69.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0996\/0350\/files\/Potassium-Citrate-Tablets-10mEq-Extended-Release-By-Zydus.jpg?v=1778159177","url":"https:\/\/www.mountainside-medical.com\/products\/potassium-citrate-er-tablets-10meq-by-zydus-pharma-100-count","provider":"Mountainside Medical","version":"1.0","type":"link"}