Potassium citrate: Difference between revisions
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== Potassium Citrate == | |||
[[File:Kaliumcitrat_V2.svg|thumb|right|Structural formula of potassium citrate]] | |||
'''Potassium citrate''' is a chemical compound with the formula K<sub>3</sub>C<sub>6</sub>H<sub>5</sub>O<sub>7</sub>. It is the potassium salt of citric acid and is commonly used in the medical field as a dietary supplement and medication. | |||
Potassium | |||
== | == Chemical Properties == | ||
Potassium | |||
Potassium citrate is a white, crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water. It has a slightly salty taste and is often used as a buffering agent in various pharmaceutical formulations. The compound is stable under normal conditions and decomposes at high temperatures. | |||
== Medical Uses == | |||
Potassium citrate is primarily used to treat and prevent [[hypokalemia]], a condition characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood. It is also used to manage [[urinary tract infections]] and to prevent the formation of [[kidney stones]], particularly those composed of [[calcium oxalate]]. | |||
=== Treatment of Hypokalemia === | |||
Hypokalemia can result from various conditions, including [[diuretic]] use, [[vomiting]], and [[diarrhea]]. Potassium citrate supplements help restore normal potassium levels, which are crucial for maintaining proper [[muscle]] and [[nerve]] function. | |||
=== Prevention of Kidney Stones === | |||
Potassium citrate increases the urinary pH and citrate levels, which helps prevent the crystallization of calcium oxalate and other compounds that form kidney stones. It is often prescribed to patients with a history of recurrent kidney stones. | |||
== Mechanism of Action == | |||
Potassium citrate works by alkalinizing the urine, which helps dissolve certain types of kidney stones and prevents their formation. The increased citrate in the urine binds with calcium, reducing the amount available to form stones. | |||
== Side Effects == | |||
Common side effects of potassium citrate include gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, it may cause [[hyperkalemia]], a condition where there is too much potassium in the blood, which can be serious if not monitored. | |||
== Dosage and Administration == | |||
Potassium citrate is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid solutions. The dosage depends on the condition being treated and the patient's response to the medication. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and consult a healthcare provider for any concerns. | |||
== Related Pages == | |||
* [[Potassium]] | * [[Potassium]] | ||
* [[Citric | * [[Citric acid]] | ||
* [[Kidney stone]] | |||
* [[Kidney | * [[Hypokalemia]] | ||
* [[ | |||
[[Category: | [[Category:Potassium compounds]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Medical treatments]] | ||
Latest revision as of 11:46, 15 February 2025
Potassium Citrate[edit]
Potassium citrate is a chemical compound with the formula K3C6H5O7. It is the potassium salt of citric acid and is commonly used in the medical field as a dietary supplement and medication.
Chemical Properties[edit]
Potassium citrate is a white, crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water. It has a slightly salty taste and is often used as a buffering agent in various pharmaceutical formulations. The compound is stable under normal conditions and decomposes at high temperatures.
Medical Uses[edit]
Potassium citrate is primarily used to treat and prevent hypokalemia, a condition characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood. It is also used to manage urinary tract infections and to prevent the formation of kidney stones, particularly those composed of calcium oxalate.
Treatment of Hypokalemia[edit]
Hypokalemia can result from various conditions, including diuretic use, vomiting, and diarrhea. Potassium citrate supplements help restore normal potassium levels, which are crucial for maintaining proper muscle and nerve function.
Prevention of Kidney Stones[edit]
Potassium citrate increases the urinary pH and citrate levels, which helps prevent the crystallization of calcium oxalate and other compounds that form kidney stones. It is often prescribed to patients with a history of recurrent kidney stones.
Mechanism of Action[edit]
Potassium citrate works by alkalinizing the urine, which helps dissolve certain types of kidney stones and prevents their formation. The increased citrate in the urine binds with calcium, reducing the amount available to form stones.
Side Effects[edit]
Common side effects of potassium citrate include gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, it may cause hyperkalemia, a condition where there is too much potassium in the blood, which can be serious if not monitored.
Dosage and Administration[edit]
Potassium citrate is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid solutions. The dosage depends on the condition being treated and the patient's response to the medication. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and consult a healthcare provider for any concerns.
