K-Lite

K-Lite: a potassium-based drug for the treatment of hypokalemia

K-Lite is a medicine manufactured by Bristol-Myers Squibb in the United States of America. It belongs to the group of potassium-based drugs and is used to treat hypokalemia, that is, a condition in which the level of potassium in the body is reduced below normal.

Potassium is one of the most important ions in the body, participating in many biochemical processes. Its presence is necessary for the normal functioning of the cardiovascular and nervous systems, as well as for maintaining healthy muscles and bones. Hypokalemia can occur as a result of various diseases and conditions, such as diseases of the cardiovascular system, nephropathy, diabetes mellitus, prolonged diarrhea, intestinal fistulas, etc., as well as as a result of taking certain medications, such as antihypertensives and some diuretics, cardiac glycosides , glucocorticoids.

K-Lite is available in the form of effervescent tablets in various flavors: lemon and orange. Each tablet contains the active substance - potassium chloride. The dosage of tablets can be 25 mEq or 50 mEq.

Like most medications, K-Lite has contraindications and side effects. Contraindications include acute and chronic renal failure, complete heart block, treatment with potassium-sparing diuretics, hyperkalemia, metabolic disorders (acidosis, hypovolemia with hyponatremia), gastrointestinal diseases, pregnancy and breastfeeding. Side effects may include dyspeptic disorders, flatulence, abdominal pain, diarrhea, ulceration, bleeding, intestinal perforation and obstruction, paresthesia, and decreased blood pressure.

You should also consider the interaction of K-Lite with other drugs. Potassium-sparing diuretics, NSAIDs and ACE inhibitors may increase the risk of hyperkalemia. With an overdose of K-Lite, various symptoms may develop, such as muscle hypotonicity, paresthesia of the limbs, cardiac dysfunction (conduction changes, arrhythmia, cardiac arrest).

During treatment with K-Lite, periodic monitoring of serum potassium levels is necessary. Patients with AV conduction disorders should take K-Lite with caution and under medical supervision.

In general, the use of K-Lite should be carried out only as prescribed by a doctor and with strict adherence to the dosage and recommendations for use. If you suspect hypokalemia or other conditions that may cause low potassium levels in the body, contact your doctor for testing and appropriate treatment.