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Posted On : 24 Apr 2013

treatment of hypokalemia according to serum potassium

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The treatment of hypokalemia depends on severity and etiology. Transient, asymptomatic, or mild hypokalemia may spontaneously resolve or may be treated with enteral potassium supplements. Patients who have mild or moderate hypokalemia {potassium level of 2.5-3.5 mEq, L} are usually asymptomatic` if these patients have only minor symptoms, they may need only oral potassium replacement therapy. Patients with mild hypokalemia whose underlying cause of hypokalemia can be corrected may not need any potassium replacement, such as those with vomiting successfully treated with antiemetics. If cardiac arrhythmias or significant symptoms are present, then more aggressive therapy is warranted. This treatment is similar to the treatment of severe hypokalemia. If the potassium level is less than 2.5 mEq, L, intravenous potassium should be given. Dose of IV Potassium Chloride is 1-4 mEq, kg, 24 h PO divided bid, qid. Alternatively, 0.5-1 mEq, kg, dose over 1 h` not to exceed adult maximum dose should be used.

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