Brand name: Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride)
Pronounced: MY-kroe kay
Generic name: Potassium chloride
Other brand names: Klor-Con, K-Dur, K-Tab, Kaon-CL, Slow-K
Why is Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride) prescribed?

Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride) is used to treat or prevent low potassium levels in people who may face potassium loss caused by digitalis (Lanoxin), non-potassium-sparing diuretics (such as Diuril and Dyazide), and certain diseases.

Potassium plays an essential role in the proper functioning of a wide range of systems in the body, including the kidneys, muscles, and nerves. As a result, a potassium deficiency may have a wide range of effects, including dry mouth, thirst, reduced urination, weakness, fatigue, drowsiness, low blood pressure, restlessness, muscle cramps, abnormal heart rate, nausea, and vomiting.

Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride) and the other products discussed here are slow-release potassium formulations.
Most important fact about Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride) without a prescriptions

There have been reports of intestinal and gastric ulcers and bleeding associated with use of slow-release potassium chloride medications. Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride) should be used only by people who cannot take potassium chloride in liquid or effervescent forms.

Do not change from one brand of potassium chloride to another without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
How should you take Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride)?

Take Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride) with meals and with a full glass of water or some other liquid.

Tell your doctor if you have difficulty swallowing Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride). You may sprinkle the contents of the capsule onto a spoonful of soft food. Capsules and tablets should not be crushed, chewed, or sucked.

If you miss a dose...

If it is within 2 hours of the scheduled time, take it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until later, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container.
Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride) side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride).

* Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain or discomfort, diarrhea, gas, nausea, stomach and intestinal ulcers and bleeding, blockage, or perforation, vomiting

Why should Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride) not be prescribed?

You should not be using Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride) in a solid form if you are taking any drug or have any condition that could stop or slow Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride) as it goes through the gastrointestinal tract.

If you have high potassium levels, you should not use Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride).

You should not use these products if you are allergic to any of their ingredients.

People with certain heart conditions should not use slow-release forms of potassium.
Special warnings about Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride)

Before taking Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride), tell your doctor if you have ever had acute dehydration, heat cramps, adrenal insufficiency, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, ulcers, or severe burns.

Tell your doctor immediately if you notice that your stools are black or tarry.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride)

If Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride) is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is important to check with your doctor before combining Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride) with the following:

Antispasmodic drugs such as Bentyl
Blood pressure medications classified as ACE inhibitors, such as Vasotec and Capoten
Digitalis (Lanoxin)
Potassium-sparing diuretics such as Midamor and Aldactone

Also tell your doctor if you use salt substitutes.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride) is generally considered safe for pregnant women or women who breastfeed their babies.
Recommended dosage for Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride)

Dosages must be adjusted for each individual. Safety and effectiveness in children have not been established. The following are typical dosages for Span-K (Slow-K, Potassium Chloride) and other leading slow-release potassium supplements.

TO TREAT LOW POTASSIUM LEVELS
Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. Overdoses of these supplements can result in potentially fatal levels of potassium. Overdose symptoms may not be noticeable in their early stages. Therefore, if you have any reason to suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately.

* Symptoms of potassium overdose may include:
Blood in stools, cardiac arrest, irregular heartbeat, muscle paralysis, muscle weakness