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Possible Interactions with: Potassium

Also listed as: Potassium

If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use potassium without first talking to your healthcare provider.

Potassium levels may be increased by the following medications:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs; such as ibuprofen, piroxicam, and sulindac): This interaction is particularly likely to occur in people with decreased kidney function.
• ACE inhibitors (such as captopril, enalapril, and lisinopril): This interaction is particularly likely to occur in people who are taking NSAIDs, potassium-sparing diuretics (such as spironolactone, triamterene, or amiloride), or salt substitutes along with the ACE inhibitor. A rise in potassium from ACE inhibitors may also be more likely in people with decreased kidney function and diabetes.
• Heparin (used for blood clots)
• Cyclosporine (used following a transplant to suppress the immune system)
• Trimethoprim (an antibiotic)
• Beta-blockers (such as metoprolol and propranolol that are used to treat high blood pressure)

Potassium levels may be decreased by the following medications:

• Thiazide diuretics (such as hydrochlorothiazide)
• Loop diuretics (such as furosemide and bumetanide)
• Corticosteroids  
• Amphotericin B  
• Antacids  
• Insulin  
• Theophylline (used for asthma)
• Laxatives  

Please refer to the depletions monographs related to these medications for additional information. A healthcare practitioner will determine whether potassium supplements are needed when individuals are taking these medications.

Other potential interactions include:

• Digoxin : Low blood levels of potassium increase the likelihood of toxic effects from digoxin, a medication used to treat abnormal heart rhythms. Normal levels of potassium should be maintained during digoxin treatment which will be measured and directed by the healthcare provider.