mechanism of action

Potassium is the major cation (positive ion) inside animal cells, while sodium is the major cation outside animal cells. The concentration differences of these charged particles causes a difference in electric potential between the inside and outside of cells, known as the membrane potential. The balance between potassium and sodium is maintained by ion pumps in the cell membrane. The cell membrane potential created by potassium and sodium ions allows the cell generate an action potential—a "spike" of electrical discharge. The ability of cells to produce electrical discharge is critical for body functions such as neurotransmission, muscle contraction, and heart function. Potassium is also an essential mineral needed to regulate water balance, blood pressure and levels of acidity.

drug interactions

Amiloride: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Benazepril: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Candesartan: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Captopril: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Cilazapril: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Drospirenone: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Enalapril: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Eplerenone: This association presents an increased risk of hyperkalemia

Eprosartan: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Forasartan: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Fosinopril: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Irbesartan: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Lisinopril: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Lithium: The urine alkalizer decreases the effect of lithium

Losartan: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Moexipril: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Perindopril: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Polystyrene sulfonate: Risk of alkalosis in renal impairment

Quinapril: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Ramipril: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Saprisartan: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Spirapril: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Spironolactone: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Tasosartan: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Telmisartan: Potassium may increase the hyperkalemic effect of Telmisartan. Monitor serum potassium levels during concomitant use.

Trandolapril: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Triamterene: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Valsartan: Increased risk of hyperkalemia