General Information on Micro K
Micro K is used to treat hypokalemia (low levels of potassium in the blood). People may have low levels of potassium in the blood due to different reasons, such as a prolonged illness with vomiting or diarrhea or certain disease or surgery, or due to the usage of certain medicines or other reasons.
Potassium is one of the essential minerals needed by the body for a variety of functions that includes beating of the heart. Potassium Chloride, the main active ingredient in the medication is an electrolyte replenisher which provides potassium to the body when the levels are low.
Micro K is available in the form of an extended release capsule. The release of the potassium happens in a controlled manner and patient is required to take the medication less frequently or once in a day. Each capsule of Micro K contains 600 mg of microencapsulated potassium chloride which is equivalent to 8 mEq K.
High levels of potassium in the blood can cause health complications, so it is necessary that you exercise caution regarding use of this drug. To reduce the risk of health complications and side effects, consult your doctor before you buy Micro K.
Side effects of Micro K
Some people may experience mild to severe side effects after using Micro K. Occasional or mild diarrhea, slight tingling in your feets or hands, upset stomach, appearance of potassium chloride tablet in your stool, mild nausea are some less serious side effects associated with the drug. These side effects generally wane with time as your body gets used to the drug. If they persist or become bothersome, then you should consult your doctor.
Micro K may also cause severe side effects in some people. Feeling like you may pass out, uneven heartbeat, increased urination, leg discomfort, anxiety, limp feeling, confusion, extreme thirst, and numbness, tarry, bloody or black stools are some severe side effects associated with the drug. This is not a complete list of severe side effects.
You may also experience severe side effects such as tingly feeling around your mouth or in your feet or hands, vomit that appears like coffee grounds, muscle weakness, severe stomach pain, vomiting, coughing up blood, or persistent diarrhea. Stop using the medication and consult your doctor immediately if you notice or experience severe side effect after using Micro K.
Dosage of Micro K
Your doctor will give specific instructions regarding the dosage. The dosage is adjusted according to individual requirements. The recommended daily dose of Micro K to treat hypokalemia is in the range of 20 mEq. Take the medication with food and a glass of water to prevent gastric irritation. Swallow the capsule whole, do not break or chew it.
Interactions
Micro K may potentially interact with other medicines you are using and cause side effects. It may interact with medications such as Eplerenone, Quinidine, Digoxin, some bronchodilators, ACE inhibitors, or diuretic. This is not a complete list of medicines that may interact with Micro K.
To reduce the risk of drug interactions and related side effects, tell your doctor about every medicine you are using before you buy Micro K. Before starting the treatment, tell him/her about prescription medications, over the counter drugs, vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements you are using.
