Can one take Potassium chloride tablets for heart health?

Question

Hi doctor,

Can a normal person take Potassium chloride (99 mg) tablet for the good working of the heart? I sometimes feel a sudden change in my heartbeat. Will this tablet help to rectify that? What are the side effects of the above-mentioned tablet? I started taking it just three days before and I did not see any improvement. Please guide.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

No, Potassium chloride should not be taken without serum potassium levels on a daily or alternate day basis.

Potassium is a highly toxic electrolyte component of blood. The increased level of potassium can cause skipped beats. It can cause palpitation and after a certain level in the body, it can even prove to be fatal. The homeostasis mechanism in our kidneys maintains the level of sodium and potassium in our body. Though 1000 mg of potassium can be taken daily, it is only indicated in patients on a low-sodium diet, or patients who have low potassium levels in the blood (hypokalemia).

If you are noticing sudden changes in your heartbeat, then serum electrolytes should be done. Also, an ECG (electrocardiogram) should be taken. Potassium is vital for the normal activity of the heart, but that amount of potassium is easily available to the body through fruits and the food we eat.

An increased level of extracellular potassium reduces myocardial excitability (contraction of the heart muscles) and depresses the conduction of the heartbeat. A serum potassium level of more than 7 milliequivalents per liter can be fatal also. It can cause blockage of the conduction system of the heart and arrhythmias.

My suggestion is to stop taking potassium tablets on your own and get a serum electrolyte level and an ECG done to check the levels of potassium in your blood as skipped beats can be because of high levels. If you feel sudden changes in your heartbeat, kindly do answer the following questions. 1. Are you hypertensive?

2. Do you smoke or drink alcohol?

3. Kindly explain your lifestyle.

4. For how long does this feeling last?

5. Is this feeling accompanied by sweating?

You should get an ECG done as a sudden change in heartbeat can be anything from normal tachycardia to arrhythmias. A detailed history, ECG, and serum electrolyte level are important to know before making a valid comment.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.