Micro K Extencaps
Prescription Required
Indications
Micro-K Extencaps is a medication that contains potassium chloride and is used as a mineral supplement to treat or prevent low levels of potassium in the blood.
Each capsule of Micro-K Extencaps contains 600 mg (8 mEq K+) of microencapsulated potassium chloride.
Use and Dosage
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. To prevent stomach upset, take each dose with a meal and a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 millilitres) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking this medication.
Swallow the capsules or tablets whole. Do not crush, or chew extended-release capsules or tablets. Doing so can release the entire drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.
Swallow the capsules whole. If you have trouble swallowing the capsules, tell your doctor or pharmacist. Some brands may be opened and the contents sprinkled onto a spoonful of cool, soft food such as applesauce or pudding. Immediately swallow the food/medication mixture without chewing. Do not prepare the mixture ahead of time. Drink a glass of cool water after each dose to make sure you swallow all the medication. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about your brand.
Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take it more often than prescribed. Do not take more than 20 milliequivalents per dose.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if you have symptoms of low potassium in the blood (such as irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness/cramps).
Side Effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to potassium chloride: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:
- Severe throat irritation
- Stomach bloating, severe vomiting, severe stomach pain
- High potassium level – nausea, weakness, tingly feeling, chest pain, irregular heartbeats, loss of movement
- Signs of stomach bleeding – bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
Common potassium chloride side effects may include:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Gas, stomach pain
- Appearance of a potassium chloride tablet in your stool
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur.
Cautions
- Before taking potassium, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
- Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heart problems, kidney problems, and high levels of potassium in the blood.
- Due to rare reports of stomach/intestinal ulcers and bleeding with sustained-release potassium products, taking a liquid form of potassium is preferred. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have throat/stomach/intestinal problems such as blockage, narrowing, or ulcers.
- Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
- Before using other potassium supplements or salt substitutes that contain potassium, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Too much potassium may cause serious side effects. (See also the Overdose section.)
- During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Potassium passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Forms and Strengths
Micro K Extencaps is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Micro K Extencaps Capsule:
- 8 meq
FAQ
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention.
Overdose symptoms may include irregular heartbeats, chest pain, or muscle weakness.
What to avoid?
Avoid taking supplements or using other products that contain potassium without first asking your doctor. Salt substitutes or low-salt dietary products often contain potassium. If you take certain products together you may accidentally get too much potassium. Read the label of any other medicine you are using to see if it contains potassium.
Resources:
Additional information
Brand Name: |
Micro K Extencaps |
|---|---|
Scientific Name: |
Potassium chloride |
Other Names: |
Micro-K Extencaps |
Strength(s): |
8meq |
Quantities Available: |
100 |
Formulation: |
Capsule |
