Potassium Citrate Extended Release Oral Tablet (POTASSIUM CITRATE TABLET - ORAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • kidney disease
  • kidney stones

Brand Name(s): Urocit-K

Generic Name: Potassium Citrate

Instructions

Swallow the medicine without crushing or chewing it.

Take the medicine with food.

Do not take on an empty stomach.

Sit or stand upright for 10 minutes after taking the medicine. Do not lie down.

Swallow with a full glass (8 oz) of water unless your doctor gives you different instructions.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.

Do not take any antacids or vitamins with aluminum for 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking this medicine.

Talk to your doctor before eating foods with large amounts of potassium. Potassium is often found in salt substitutes. Your doctor may want you to reduce the amount of these foods.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

If you have been told to follow a low sodium diet, speak to your doctor before using this medicine.

Parts of this medicine may come out in the stool. This is normal.

While taking this medicine, you many need to test your urine using pH paper. This will help your doctor determine the right dose for you.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

This medicine is associated with an increased risk of serious heart problems and heart attack. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience chest pain or difficulty breathing.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Speak with your doctor before taking any medicine with aspirin.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

If you have had a heart attack within the past 6 months, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • diarrhea
  • nausea and vomiting
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • bloating
  • chest pain
  • confusion
  • constipation
  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • dizziness
  • fainting
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • slow heartbeat
  • muscle cramps or weakness
  • restlessness
  • stomach pain
  • bloody or dark, tarry stools
  • difficulty swallowing
  • severe or persistent vomiting

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

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