PRODUCT MONOGRAPH

Potassium Chloride Injection

Sterile Solution
Potassium ion (K+)
10 mEq/50mL, 20 mEq/50mL
10 mEq/100mL, 20 mEq/100mL
40mEq/100mL
Electrolyte Replenisher

Baxter Corporation Date of Revision: January 23, 2019

Mississauga, Ontario L5N 0C2
Canada

Submission Control No.: 221674

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 1 of 18

 Table of Contents

PART I: HEALTH PROFESSIONAL INFORMATION ........................................................ 3

SUMMARY PRODUCT INFORMATION ............................................................................... 3
INDICATIONS AND CLINICAL USE ..................................................................................... 3
CONTRAINDICATIONS .......................................................................................................... 4
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS ......................................................................................... 4
ADVERSE REACTIONS ........................................................................................................... 7
DRUG INTERACTIONS ........................................................................................................... 8
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION ....................................................................................... 9
OVERDOSAGE ......................................................................................................................... 9
ACTION AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY ................................................................... 11
STORAGE AND STABILITY ................................................................................................. 11
DOSAGE FORMS, COMPOSITION AND PACKAGING .................................................... 12
PART II: SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION ............................................................................... 13
PHARMACEUTICAL INFORMATION ................................................................................. 13
DETAILED PHARMACOLOGY ............................................................................................ 13
TOXICOLOGY ........................................................................................................................ 14
REFERENCES ......................................................................................................................... 15
PART III: CONSUMER INFORMATION............................................................................. 16

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 2 of 18

 POTASSIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION
Potassium chloride

PART I: HEALTH PROFESSIONAL INFORMATION

SUMMARY PRODUCT INFORMATION

Route of Dosage Clinically Relevant Nonmedicinal Ingredients

Administration Form/Strength

Intravenous Sterile solutions of : There are no nonmedicinal ingredients.

Potassium ion (K+) For a complete listing see Dosage Forms,
10 mEq/50mL Composition and Packaging section.
(14.9mg/ml)
20 mEq/50mL
(29.8mg/ml)
10 mEq/100mL
(7.46mg/ml)
20 mEq/100mL
(14.9mg/ml)
40mEq/100mL
(29.8mg/ml)

INDICATIONS AND CLINICAL USE

This highly concentrated, ready-to-use potassium chloride injection is intended for the rapid
correction of hypokalemia and for potassium supplementation in fluid restricted patients who
cannot accommodate additional volumes of fluid associated with potassium solutions of lower
concentration10, 11.
Potassium Chloride Injection is indicated for:
• treatment of potassium deficiency states where hypokalemia is severe6,7,8. Severe
hypokalemia is defined as a serum potassium concentration of less than 2.5 mEq/L;
serum potassium less than 3.0 mEq/L with definite symptoms or ECG signs of
hypokalemia; or serum potassium less than 3.2 mEq/L in the presence of metabolic
acidosis and treatment with sodium bicarbonate or insulin is imminent5.
• treatment of hypokalemia (K+ < 3.5 mEq/L) in postoperative cardiothoracic surgical
patients, where a serum potassium concentration of 4.0 to 5.0 mEq/L is necessary to
minimize ventricular arrhythmias9.
• cautious treatment to abolish arrhythmias of cardiac glycoside toxicity precipitated by a
loss of potassium. This regimen should not be used in patients with atrioventricular
block1.

Geriatrics (> 65 years of age): No data are available.

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 3 of 18

Pediatrics (16 years of age): No data are available.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

• Patients who are hypersensitive to this drug or to any ingredient in the formulation or
component of the container. For a complete listing, see the DOSAGE FORMS,
COMPOSITION, AND PACKAGING section of the Product Monograph.
• Hyperkalemia
• Renal impairment with oliguria, anuria or azotemia
• Untreated Addison’s disease
• Ventricular fibrillation
• Salt-losing adrenal hyperplasia
• Extensive tissue breakdown as in severe burns, acute dehydration and heat cramps
• Increased sensitivity to potassium administration (e.g., in congenital paramyotonia or
adynamia episodica hereditaria)
• Hyperadrenalism associated with adrenogential syndrome3.
• Digitalis-induced second- or third-degree heart block is the only type of dysrhythmia in
which potassium is contraindicated4.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Serious Warnings and Precautions

Potassium Chloride Injection should be administered with extreme caution, if at all, to patients
with conditions predisposing to hyperkalemia and/or associated with increased sensitivity to
potassium, such as patients with:
• potassium-aggravated skeletal muscle channelopathies (e.g., hyperkalemic periodic
paralysis, paramyotonia congenita, and potassium-aggravated
myotonia/paramyotonia).
Potassium Chloride Injection should be administered with caution to patients who are at risk of
experiencing hyperosmolality, acidosis, or undergo correction of alkalosis (conditions associated
with a shift of potassium from intracellular to extracellular space) and patients treated
concurrently or recently with agents or products that can cause hyperkalemia (See Drug-Drug
Interactions).
If used in high-risk patients, especially close monitoring and careful dose selection and
adjustment is required.

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 4 of 18

General
Potassium Chloride Injection should only be used in an ICU/CCU setting where a detailed
protocol for administration of concentrated potassium chloride has been established.
Uncontrolled infusion may lead to hyperkalemia.
In patients with impaired mechanisms for excreting potassium, administration of potassium
chloride can produce hyperkalemia and cardiac arrest. This is of particular concern in patients
given i.v. potassium. Potentially fatal hyperkalemia can develop rapidly and may be
asymptomatic. To avoid potassium intoxication, do not infuse these solutions rapidly3. Patients
must be kept on continuous cardiac monitoring and undergo frequent testing for serum potassium
and acid-base balance, especially if they receive digitalis.
Administer intravenously only with a calibrated infusion device at a slow controlled rate (see
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).
When infusing concentrated potassium solutions, care must be taken to prevent paravenous
administration or extravasation because such solutions may be associated with tissue damage,
which may be severe and may include vascular, nerve, and tendon damage and may lead to
surgical intervention, including amputation. Secondary complications including pulmonary
embolism from thrombophlebitis have been reported as a consequence of tissue damage from
potassium chloride.
Administration via a central route is recommended for dilution by the blood stream and
avoidance of extravasation2, as well as to avoid the pain and phlebitis associated with peripheral
infusion. Correct placement of the catheter should be verified before administration.
The highest concentrations of Potassium Chloride Injection (300 mEq/L and higher) should be
exclusively administered via central intravenous route.
Do not connect flexible plastic containers in series in order to avoid air embolism due to possible
residual air contained in the primary container.
Hyponatremia
Monitoring of serum sodium is particularly important for hypotonic fluids, Potassium Chloride
Injection has an osmolarity of 200-799 mOmol/L (Refer to bag label for specific osmolarity).
High volume infusion must be used under specific monitoring in patients with cardiac or
pulmonary failure, and in patients with non-osmotic vasopressin release (including Syndrome of
Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion (SIADH)), due to the risk of hospital-acquired
hyponatremia.
Acute hyponatremia can lead to acute hyponatremic encephalopathy (brain edema) characterized
by headache, nausea, seizures, lethargy and vomiting. Patients with brain edema are at particular
risk of severe, irreversible and life-threatening brain injury.
Cardiovascular

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 5 of 18

Administration of concentrated potassium solutions can cause cardiac conduction disorders
(including complete heart block) and other cardiac arrhythmias at any time during infusion. Use
potassium with caution in disease associated with heart block since increased serum potassium
may increase the degree of block3.
Patients requiring treatment of potassium depletion, particularly in the presence of cardiac
disease, should be kept on continuous ECG monitoring and undergo clinical evaluation and
frequent testing for serum potassium and acid-base balance. Continuous ECG monitoring is
performed to aid in the detection of cardiac arrhythmias due to a sudden increase in serum
potassium concentration (e.g., when potassium infusion is started), or transient or sustained
hyperkalemia. Frequently, mild or moderate hyperkalemia is asymptomatic and may be
manifested only by increased serum potassium concentrations and, possibly, characteristic ECG
changes. However, fatal arrhythmias can develop at any time during hyperkalemia.

Endocrine and Metabolism

Use of potassium salts in patients with adrenal insufficiency or any other condition which
impairs potassium excretion requires particularly appropriate dosage adjustment. See Serious
Warnings and Precautions.

Renal
Treatment of potassium depletion, particularly in the presence of renal disease or acidosis,
requires careful attention to acid base balance and appropriate monitoring of serum electrolytes,
the ECG and the patient’s clinical status.
Use of potassium salts in patients with chronic renal disease or any other condition which
impairs potassium excretion requires particularly appropriate dosage adjustment. See Serious
Warnings and Precautions.

Special Populations
Pregnant Women: Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with potassium
chloride, and there are no adequate data from the use of Potassium Chloride Injection in pregnant
women. It is also not known whether potassium chloride can cause fetal harm when
administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. Potassium chloride
should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed 2, and after careful consideration of
the potential risks and benefits.
Nursing Women: There are no adequate data from the use of Potassium Chloride Injection in
lactating women. It is unknown if the drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are
excreted in human milk, the potential risks and benefits for each specific patient should be
carefully considered before using Potassium Chloride Injection in lactating women.
Pediatrics (< 16 years of age): No data are available.
Geriatrics (> 65 years of age): No data are available.

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 6 of 18

Monitoring and Laboratory Tests
Serum potassium levels are not necessarily indicative of tissue potassium levels. Clinical
evaluation and periodic laboratory determinations are necessary to monitor changes in fluid
balance, electrolyte concentrations, and acid-base balance during prolonged parenteral therapy or
whenever the condition of the patient warrants such evaluation.

ADVERSE REACTIONS

Adverse Drug Reaction Overview

Potassium intoxication with mild or severe hyperkalemia has been reported. The signs and
symptoms of intoxication include paresthesia of the extremities, areflexia, muscular or
respiratory paralysis, mental confusion, weakness and heaviness of the legs, hypotension, cardiac
arrhythmia, heart block, electrographic abnormalities and cardiac arrest. Hyperkalemia may
exhibit the following ECG abnormalities: peaked T waves and a shortened QT interval when
serum potassium exceeds 5.5 to 6.0 mEq/L; loss of P waves, widening of the QRS complex, and
eventual asystole occurs with higher elevations5. Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea
have been reported with the use of potassium-containing solutions1.
Reactions which may occur because of the solution or the technique of administration include
febrile response, infection at the site of injection, venous thrombosis or phlebitis extending from
the site of injection, extravasation and hypervolemia.
If an adverse reaction does occur, discontinue the infusion, evaluate the patient, and institute
appropriate therapeutic countermeasures.
Pain associated with peripheral infusion of potassium chloride solution has been reported.

Post-Market Adverse Drug Reactions

The following adverse reactions have been reported in the post-marketing experience. Events
are listed by MedDRA System Organ Class (SOC), then by Preferred Term in order of severity,
where feasible.
Immune System Disorders: Hypersensitivity, as manifested by rash and angioedema
Metabolism And Nutrition Disorders: Hyperkalemia
Cardiac Disorders: Cardiac arrest, Asystole*, Ventricular fibrillation*, Bradycardia
Respiratory, Thoracic, And Mediastinal Disorders: Dyspnea
General Disorders And Administration Site Conditions: Chest pain, Infusion site pain,
Infusion site irritation, Burning sensation
Class Reactions
Other adverse reaction associated with administration of concentrated potassium chloride
solutions include:


as a manifestation of rapid intravenous administration and/or of hyperkalemia

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 7 of 18

In association with extravasation: Skin necrosis, Skin ulcer, Soft tissue necrosis, Muscle
necrosis, Nerve injury, Tendon injury, and Vascular injury
Infusion site thrombosis, Infusion site phlebitis, Infusion site swelling, Infusion site erythema.
Other adverse reactions associated with administration of similar solutions include:
Hyponatremia, Hyponatremic encephalopathy.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Overview
Potassium Chloride Injection should be used with caution in patients treated concurrently or
recently with agents or products that can cause hyperkalemia or increase the risk of
hyperkalemia.

Administration of potassium in patients treated with such agents is associated with an increased
risk of severe and potentially fatal hyperkalemia, in particular in the presence of other risk
factors for hyperkalemia.
Caution is advised when administering Potassium Chloride Injection to patients treated with
drugs leading to an increased vasopressin effect. The below listed drugs increase the vasopressin
effect, leading to reduced renal electrolyte free water excretion and may increase the risk of
hyponatremia following treatment with i.v. fluids (See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
and ADVERSE REACTIONS).
Drugs stimulating vasopressin release such as chlorpropamide, clofibrate, carbamazepine,
vincristine, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), 3.4-methylenedioxy-N-
methamphetamine, ifosfamide, antipsycotics, opiods.

Drugs potentiating vasopressin action such as chlorpropamide, non steroidal anti-

inflammatories (NSAIDS), cyclophosphamide.

Vasopressin analogues such as desmopressin, oxytocin, vasopressin, terlipressin.

Caution is advised when administering Potassium Chloride Injection to patients treated with
drugs that may increase the risk of hyponatremia, such as diuretics and antiepileptics (e.g.
oxycarbazepine).
Drug-Drug Interactions
Name Ref Effect Clinical Comment
ACE Inhibitors L Concomitant Use extreme caution if administering
administration can conconmitantly
produce severe
hyperkalemia
Potassium-sparing L Concomitant Use extreme caution if administering
diuretics (e.g. administration can conconmitantly
amiloride, produce severe
spironolactone, hyperkalemia
triamterene)

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 8 of 18

Drug-Food Interactions
Interactions with food have not been established.

Drug-Herb Interactions
Interactions with herbal products have not been established.

Drug-Laboratory Test Interactions

Interactions with laboratory tests have not been established.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

Dosing Considerations
The dose and rate of administration are dependent upon the specific condition of each patient.
Recommended Dose and Dosage Instructions
Recommended administration rates should not usually exceed 10 mEq/hour or 200 mEq for a 24
hour period if the serum potassium level is greater than 2.5 mEq/L.
In urgent cases where the serum potassium level is less than 2.0 mEq/L or where severe
hypokalemia is a threat, (serum potassium level less than 2.0 mEq/L and ECG changes and/or
muscle paralysis) rates up to 40 mEq/hour or 400 mEq over a 24 hour period can be administered
very carefully when guided by continuous monitoring of the ECG and frequent serum K+
determinations to avoid hyperkalemia and cardiac arrest.
Administration
For intravenous use only. Administer only with a calibrated infusion device at a slow, controlled
rate. The higher concentrations (300 mEq/L and higher) should be exclusively administered via
central intravenous route. Because pain and phlebitis associated with peripheral infusion of
potassium chloride solutions has been reported, administration via a central route for all
concentrations is recommended for thorough dilution by the blood stream and avoidance of
extravasation. Correct placement of the catheter should be verified before administration.
Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discolouration,
whenever solution and container permit. Do not administer unless the solution is clear and the
seal is intact. Use of a final filter is recommended during administration of all parenteral
solutions where possible. Do not add supplementary medication2.

OVERDOSAGE

Symptoms: If excretory mechanisms are impaired or if potassium is administered too rapidly i.v.,
potentially fatal hyperkalemia can result. Paresthesia of the extremities, listlessness, mental

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 9 of 18

confusion, gastrointestinal symptoms (ileus, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain), weakness,
heaviness of legs, muscular and respiratory paralysis, hypotension, disturbances in cardiac
conduction and arrhythmias, including bradycardia, heart block, asystole, ventricular
tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and cardiac arrest may occur. Frequently, hyperkalemia is
asymptomatic and may be manifested only by increased serum potassium concentration and,
possibly, characteristic electrocardiographic changes. However, fatal arrhythmias can develop at
any time.
In addition to arrhythmias and conduction disorders, progressive ECG changes occur with
increasing potassium levels. Possible changes include peaking of T waves, loss of P waves,
depression of S-T segment, and prolongation of the QT interval. Late manifestations include
muscle paralysis and cardiovascular collapse from cardiac arrest. However, the correlation
between potassium levels and ECG changes is not precise, and whether or at which potassium
level certain ECG signs develop depends on factors such as patient sensitivity, the presence of
other electrolyte disorders, and the rapidity of the development of hyperkalemia.
The presence of any ECG findings that are suspected to be caused by hyperkalemia should be
considered a medical emergency.
Treatment: In the event that hyperkalemia is present or suspected, discontinue potassium i.v.
administration immediately and institute corrective therapy to reduce serum potassium levels as
necessary. The serum potassium concentration and ECG must be monitored, as well as serum
electrolytes, creatinine, glucose and arterial blood gases.
Treatment of mild to severe hyperkalemia with signs and symptoms of potassium intoxication
includes the following:
1. Elimination of potassium-rich foods, medications and i.v. solutions containing potassium,
or medication which can induce hyperkalemia.
2. Dextrose Injection, USP, 10% or 25%, containing 10 units of crystalline insulin per 20
grams of dextrose administered intravenously, 300 to 500 mL per hour.
3. Correction of acidosis, if present, with 40-160 mEq of i.v. sodium bicarbonate infused
over 5 minutes. This dose may be repeated after 10-15 minutes if ECG abnormalities
persist.
4. Absorption and exchange of potassium using sodium or ammonium cycle cation
exchange resin, orally and as retention enema.
5. Use of hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.
6. Use of Calcium gluconate. I.V. calcium is not recommended in patients receiving
digoxin.
In treating hyperkalemia in digitalized patients, too rapid a lowering of the serum potassium
concentration can produce digitalis toxicity1,2,4.

For management of a suspected drug overdose contact your regional Poison Control Centre.

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 10 of 18

ACTION AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

Mechanism of Action
Potassium is the major cation of intracellular fluid and is essential for maintenance of acid-base
balance, isotonicity, and electrodynamic characteristics of the cell. Potassium is an important
activator in many enzymatic reactions and is essential to a number of physiologic processes
including transmission of nerve impulses; contraction of cardiac, smooth, and skeletal muscles;
gastric secretion; renal function; tissue synthesis; and carbohydrate metabolism1. Chloride, the
major extracellular anion, closely follows the metabolism of sodium, and changes in the acid-
base of the body are reflected by changes in the chloride concentration.

Potassium first enters the extracellular fluid and is then actively transported into the cells. In
healthy adults, serum potassium concentrations generally range from 3.5-5 mEq/L. Serum
potassium concentrations, however, are not necessarily accurate indications of cellular potassium
concentrations, as intracellular potassium accounts for 98% of total body amount. Potassium is
excreted mainly by the kidneys. Normally about 80-90% of the potassium intake is excreted in
the urine, the remainder in the stools and to a small extent, in the perspiration2.

Potassium depletion may occur whenever the rate of loss exceeds the rate of intake. Causes of
hypokalemia include: inadequate intake, diuretic therapy, diabetic ketoacidosis, metabolic
alkalosis, potassium-losing nephropathy, severe diarrhea, prolonged vomiting, drainage of
gastrointestinal fluids, hyperaldosteronism, hepatic cirrhosis with ascites, Bartter syndrome and
long-term corticosteroid therapy. Potassium deficiency may cause vomiting, abdominal
distention, malaise, myalgia, paralytic ileus, acute muscular weakness, paralysis, paresthesia,
polydipsia and an inability to concentrate urine, cardiac arrhythmias, and coma3. Hypokalemia
may also increase the toxicity of digoxin4. Severe potassium depletion (<2.5 mEq/L) may result
in elevation of serum creatinine phosphokinase, aldolase, and aspartate aminotransferase levels.
Rhabdomyolysis may ensue when the serum potassium concentration falls below 2.0 mEq/L.

Chronic potassium depletion can lead to decreased glomerular filtration rate, renal blood flow,
disturbance in tubular sodium handling, impairment of the urinary concentrating ability with
polydipsia, and ADH-resistant nephrogenic diabetes insipidus. Reversible pathologic changes
include renal hypertrophy and epithelial vacuolization of the proximal convoluted tubule.
However, interstitial scarring and tubular atrophy have been reported with prolonged potassium
depletion5.

STORAGE AND STABILITY

Store at room temperature (15° to 25° C).

The ready to use VIAFLEX Plus plastic container is fabricated from a specially formulated
polyvinyl chloride. Exposure to temperatures above 25°C during transport and storage will lead
to minor losses in moisture content. Higher temperatures lead to greater losses. It is unlikely
that these minor losses will lead to clinically significant changes within the expiration period.
The amount of water that can permeate from inside the container into the overwrap is insufficient
to affect the solution significantly. Solutions in contact with the plastic container may leach out

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 11 of 18

certain of its chemical components from the plastic in very small amounts; however, biological
testing was supportive of the safety of the plastic container materials.

DOSAGE FORMS, COMPOSITION AND PACKAGING

Potassium Chloride Injection is a sterile nonpyrogenic solution of Potassium Chloride, USP in

Water of Injection, USP intended for intravenous admistration. It contains no antimicrobial
agents, and is supplied in ready to use, single dose VIAFLEX Plus plastic (polyvinyl chloride)
containers. The compositions of the various sizes and concentrations of Potassium Chloride
Injection are as follows:

Pot. Chloride
Water for
Product Inj. KCl Potassium KCl,
Injection,
Code No. mEq. Concentration Chloride, USP mg/ml
USP
K+/Container

JB0821 10 mEq/50mL 200 mEq/L 0.746 g 14.9mg/ml q.s. to 50 mL

JB0826 10 mEq/100mL 100 mEq/L 0.746 g 7.46mg/ml q.s. to 100 mL

JB0822 20 mEq/50mL 400 mEq/L 1.49 g 29.8mg/ml q.s. to 50 mL

JB0827 20 mEq/100mL 200 mEq/L 1.49 g 14.9mg/ml q.s. to 100 mL

JB0824 40 mEq/100mL 400 mEq/L 2.98 g 29.8mg/ml q.s. to 100 mL

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 12 of 18

PART II: SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION
PHARMACEUTICAL INFORMATION

Drug Substance
Proper name: Potassium chloride, USP
Chemical name: Potassium chloride
Molecular formula and molecular mass: KCl; 74.55
Physicochemical properties: Potassium Chloride USP is a white crystalline powder having a
melting point of 770 °C. It is freely soluble in water with a pH range of 4.0-8.0 at 25 °C.

DETAILED PHARMACOLOGY

Potassium is the major cation of intracellular fluid and is essential for maintenance of acid-base
balance, isotonicity and electrodynamic characteristics of the cell. Potassium is also essential in
the physiological processes including nerve impulse transmission; contraction of cardiac, smooth
and skeletal muscles; gastric secretion; renal function; tissue synthesis; and carbohydrate
metabolism. In addition, potassium is an important activator in many enzymatic reactions1.
Chloride is the major extracellular anion which is essential for the maintenance of acid-base
balance.

Pharmacodynamics
In vivo studies performed were designed to evaluate the pharmacodynamics of concentrated
potassium chloride administration to critically ill patients, pediatric cardiac surgical patients and
cardiopulmonary bypass patients. According to Kruse and Carlson (1990), a positive correlation
between the change in serum potassium level and the total dose administered was shown;
however, there was only a modest linear correlation between differing hourly rates of potassium
administration and change in serum potassium. An average increase in serum potassium level of
0.25 mmol/L per 20 mEq infusion was observed. There was not a clear relationship between
changes in potassium and serum creatinine level. 7

The dose-response curve observed by Schaber et al. had a very low coefficient of determination.
Eighty-seven percent of responses were an increase in serum potassium. The variability in
response to a given dose was expected due to the complex interaction of the physiologic
variables involved such as: the dose administered, arterial pH, pre-infusion serum potassium
concentration, and serum bicarbonate concentration. A preinfusion serum potassium less than or
equal to 3.5 mEq/L was associated with a change in serum potassium of 0.79 ± 0.23 mEq/kg.
Patients with a preinfusion serum potassium less than 3.5 mEq/L received a slightly greater
potassium dose than those with a higher preinfusion serum concentration. If the preinfusion
serum potassium was greater than 3.5 mEq/L, the change in serum potassium was 0.51 ± 0.48
mEq/L11.

Manning et al. (1982) observed that there was only a modest linear correlation between differing
hourly rates of potassium administration and change in serum potassium. The mean change in

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 13 of 18

serum potassium after 33.0 mmol of potassium chloride was 0.40 ± 0.42 mmol/L9.

Dose Response Data

Study Author Pre-infusion Mean Change in Serum Potassium
Serum [K+]
Kruse and 3.22 mmol/L 0.25 mmol/L for each 20 mEq administered
Carlson, 1990
Manning et al. 3.6  0.28 mmol/L 0.40  0.45 mmol/L after administration of 33.0 mEq
1982
Schaber et al.  3.5 mEq/L 0.79  0.44 mEq/L after administration of 0.78  0.27
1985 mEq/kg
 3.5 mEq/L 0.51  0.48 mmol/L after administration of 0.69 
0.19 mEq/kg

Pharmacokinetics

Distribution
Potassium first enters the extracellular fluid and is then actively transported into the cells where
its concentration is up to 40 times that outside the cell. According to Kruse et al. (1994), the
kinetic behaviour of potassium demonstrated a maximum plasma concentration at the end of the
infusion. This maximum concentration decreased rapidly postinfusion and stabilized.

Manning et al. (1982) reported no significant or consistent changes that would indicate a
distribution phase.
Elimination
Potassium is excreted mainly by the kidneys. The cation is filtered by the glomeruli, reabsorbed
in the proximal tubule, and secreted in the distal tubule, the site of sodium-potassium exchange.
Tubular secretion of potassium is also influenced by chloride ion concentration, hydrogen ion
exchange, acid-base equilibrium, and adrenal hormones. Surgery and/or tissue injury result in
increased urinary excretion of potassium which may continue for several days. Small amounts
of potassium may be excreted via the skin and intestinal tract, but most of the potassium excreted
into the intestine is later reabsorbed.
Manning et al. (1982) reported that in postoperative cardiopulmonary bypass patients who were
administered intermittent concentrated potassium chloride, a mean potassium intake of 37.4 
4.7 mmols resulted in a mean urine potassium excretion of 29.4  19 mmols.

TOXICOLOGY

The potential toxic side effects of potassium chloride have been characterized through extensive
clinical use for many years. Potassium chloride is a well-characterized drug. The medical
literature documents the use of concentrated potassium chloride injection and no occurrence of
unusual side effects has been noted when proper administration procedures are followed.

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 14 of 18

REFERENCES

1. AHFS Drug Information 96: Potassium Supplements. American Society of Health-

System Pharmacists, Bethesda, 1996: 1871-1876.

2. Potassium Chloride Injection Product Insert. Baxter Healthcare Corporation, Deerfield,

USA, 1996.

3. Potassium Salts, General Monograph. CPS 32ed. Canadian Pharmaceutical Association,

Toronto, 1997: 1258-1259.

4. Principles of Medical Pharmacology, 5th ed. B.C. Decker Inc., Toronto, 1989: 349.

5. Applied Therapeutics: The Clinical Use of Drugs, 6th ed. Applied Therapeutics Inc.,
Vancouver, 1995.

6. Singhi S, Gautham KS, Lal A. Safety and Efficacy of a Concentrated Potassium

Chloride Solution Infusion for Rapid Correction of Hypokalemia. Indian Pediatrics,
1994; 31: 565-569.

7. Kruse JA, Carlson RW. Rapid correction of hypokalemia using concentrated intravenous
potassium chloride infusions. Archs Intl Med. 1990;150: 613-7.

8. Stanaszek WR et al. Current approaches to management of potassium deficiency. Drug

Intell Clin Pharm. 1985;19:176-183.

9. Manning SM, Angaran DM, Arom KV et al. Intermittent intravenous potassium therapy
in cardiopulmonary bypass patients. Clin Pharm. 1982;1:234-8.

10. Kruse JA, Clark VL, Carlson RW et al. Concentrated potassium chloride iInfusion in
critically ill patients with hypokalemia. J Clin Pharmacol. 1994; 34:1077-82.

11. Schaber DE, Uden DL, Stone FM et al. Intravenous KCl: Supplementation in pediatric
cardiac surgical patients. Ped Cardiol. 1985; 6: 25-8.

12. Cohen MR. Ongoing potassium chloride concentrate errors kill patients: An issue of cost
versus care? Hospital Pharmacy. 1996; 31(2): 187-8.

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 15 of 18

 PART III: CONSUMER INFORMATION • you have extensive tissue damage such as severe
burns, acute dehydration and heat cramps
Highly Concentrated Potassium Chloride Injection
• you have increased sensitivity to potassium
Sterile Injection administration
Potassium ion (K+) • you have an overactive adrenal gland
(hyperadrenalism associated with adrenogenital
10 mEq/50mL, 20 mEq/50mL syndrome)
10 mEq/100mL, 20 mEq/100mL, 40mEq/100mL
• you have abnormal heart rhythm while taking
Electrolyte Replenisher digitalis that leads to heart block (digitalis induced
second and third degree heart block)
What the medicinal ingredient is:
This leaflet is part III of a three-part "Product
Monograph" published when Potassium Chloride Potassium Chloride
Injection was approved for sale in Canada and is
What the important nonmedicinal ingredients are:
designed specifically for Consumers. This leaflet is a
summary and will not tell you everything about There are no non-medicinal ingredients in Potassium
Potassium Chloride Injection. Contact your doctor or Chloride Injection.
pharmacist if you have any questions about the drug.
What dosage forms it comes in:
Potassium Chloride Injection comes as a sterile solution for
ABOUT THIS MEDICATION intravenous administration. It is available in the following
strengths and volumes: Potassium ion (K+) 10 mEq/50mL,
10 mEq/100mL, 20 mEq/50mL, 20 mEq/100mL, 40
What the medication is used for: mEq/100mL.
Potassium Chloride Injection is administred by a Health care
Professional to treat potassium deficiency. This means that
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
your body does not have the blood level of potassium that it
needs to work properly. Serious Warnings and Precautions
What it does: If you have a condition that makes it more likely that you
Potassium chloride replacement will add potassium to your will already have too much potassium in your system or if
body. you have a condition that makes you more sensitive to
serum potassium levels, Potassium Chloride Injection must
When it should not be used: be given to you with extreme caution. Some examples of
Potassium Chloride Injection should not be used if: conditions that would put you at risk include:
- muscle disorders such as potassium-aggravated skeletal
• you have a hypersensitivity to potassium or to any
muscle channelopathies (e.g., hyperkalemic periodic
component of the container (plastic; polyvinyl
paralysis, paramyotonia congenita, and potassium-
chloride)
aggravated myotonia/paramyotonia).
• you already have too much potassium in your body
Potassium Chloride Injection will be administered with
(hyperkalemia)
caution to you if you are at risk of experiencing
• you have kidney (renal) impairment hyperosmolality (high concentrationof salts in the blood),
acidosis (too much acid in the blood), or undergo
• you have untreated Addison’s disease (a condition in correction of alkalosis (conditions associated with a shift of
which your adrenal glands do not make enough of potassium from intracellular to extracellular space) or if
certain hormones) you are receiving (or recently received) treatment with
• you have irregular heart rhythm (ventricular agents or products that can cause you to have too much
fibrillation) potassium in your system (See Interactions).

• you have a genetic condition of the adrenal gland Your doctor will monitor your condition.
(salt-losing adrenal hyperplasia)

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 16 of 18

 BEFORE you use Potassium Chloride Injection, talk to your
SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS AND WHAT TO
doctor or pharmacist if:
DO ABOUT THEM
• You have any of the following conditions:
• Pain at the infusion
site
• Heart problems, such as congestive heart
• Burning at the
failure or problems with the rate or rhythm
infusion site
of your heart beat
• Swelling at the
• Kidney problems
infusion site
• Problems with your adrenal gland (e.g.
• Nausea Talk with your
Addison’s disease)
• Vomiting doctor or pharmacist
• You are pregnant • Diarrhea in all cases
• Numbness in hands
• You are nursing an infant or feet
• Difficulty breathing
• Changes in heart
INTERACTIONS WITH THIS MEDICATION rate or heart rhythm
Drugs that may interact with Potassium Chloride Injection • Rash or swelling
include:
• Diuretics that may prevent loss of potassium, such as
amiloride, spironolactone, triamterene and This is not a complete list of side effects. For any
Medications used to treat high blood pressure such as unexpected effects while taking Potassium Chloride
Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors Injection, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PROPER USE OF THIS MEDICATION HOW TO STORE IT

Usual Dose: Store at room temperature (15 to 25 C).
The appropriate dose is selected by the Health Care
Professional and is administred through a vein. REPORTING SIDE EFFECTS

Overdose: You can report any suspected side effects associated with
the use of health products to Health Canada by:
In case of drug overdose, contact a health care
practitioner, hospital emergency department or regional -Visiting the Web page on Adverse Reaction Reporting
Poison Control Centre immediately, even if there are no (https://www.canada.ca/en/health-
symptoms. canada/services/drugs-health-products/medeffect-
canada/adverse-reaction-reporting.html) for
information on how to report online, by mail or by fax;
Missed Dose: or

If you miss your scheduled infusion, contact your doctor or - Calling toll-free at 1-866-234-2345
nurse as soon as possible to schedule your next treatment. NOTE : Contact your healthcare professional if you need
information about how to manage your side effects. The
Canada Vigilance program does not provide medical
SIDE EFFECTS AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT THEM advice.
The side effects reported with Potassium Chloride Injection
MORE INFORMATION
may be a result of how the product has been given to you
(such as pain or infection at the infusion site, fever). Most If you want more information about Potassium Chloride
Injection:
often, the side effects that occur are a result of your body
responding to the increased levels of potassium in your ▪ Talk to your healthcare professional
system. ▪ Find the full product monograph that is prepared for
healthcare professionals and includes this Consumer

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 17 of 18

 Information by visiting the Health Canada website
(https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada.html); the
Baxter website (baxter.ca), or by calling 1-888-719-
9955.
This leaflet was prepared by Baxter Corporation.
Mississauga, ON L5N 0C2
Last revised: January 23, 2019

Potassium Chloride Injection Product Monograph Page 18 of 18