Potassium citrate
Potassium Citrate
Potassium citrate (pronounced poh-TASS-ee-um SIT-rate) is a potassium salt of citric acid with the molecular formula K3C6H5O7. It is a white, crystalline powder with a slightly salty taste. It is involved in a number of biological processes and is commonly used in medicine to treat a variety of conditions.
Etymology
The term "Potassium citrate" is derived from the elements that make up the compound. "Potassium" is derived from the English word "potash", and "citrate" is derived from "citric acid", which was first isolated from lemon juice.
Medical Uses
Potassium citrate is used in medicine as an alkalizing agent to treat certain types of kidney stones. It works by crystallizing stone-forming salts such as calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, and uric acid within the urinary tract by increasing the urinary pH and urine citrate levels.
Related Terms
- Citric Acid: An organic acid that has the formula C6H8O7. It is a natural preservative and is also used to add an acidic, or sour, taste to foods and soft drinks.
- Kidney Stones: Hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys.
- Urinary Tract: The organs and ducts involved in the production and excretion of urine. It includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Potassium citrate
- Wikipedia's article - Potassium citrate
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