Potassium gluconate sources, health risks

Tuesday, October 24, 2017 by Michelle Simmons

Potassium gluconate is a mineral supplement and sequestrant, according to WorldofChemicals.com. It is a loosely bound salt of potassium and gluconic acid. It is used to treat hypokalemia or low blood levels of potassium. Potassium is an essential mineral needed by the body. It is important in maintaining the body’s acid-base balance and promoting physiological and metabolic processes, working together with sodium.

Other names for potassium gluconate include D-gluconicacid, monopotassium salt, gluconic acid, monopotassium salt, D-gluconic acid potassium salt, 2,3,4,5,6-pentahydroxycaproic acid potassium salt and potassium D-gluconate.

Taking potassium gluconate should be consulted with a doctor first. It is taken with food or right after eating. Potassium gluconate in liquid form should be measured out carefully with the use of a dose-specific measuring device to avoid over dosage. It is consumed by mixing with water or juice.

Harmful effects that can be caused by potassium gluconate

Potassium gluconate is harmful when it interacts with other medications and should only be taken under the supervision of a health professional. Some of the side effects of taking potassium gluconate include diarrhea, dyspepsia, nausea, muscle weakness, decreased heart rate, and arrythmia, according to LiveStrong.com. Sucking or chewing on potassium gluconate tablets can also cause irritation in the mouth and throat.

People with hyperkalemia or high potassium levels and those with kidney disease should avoid this supplement. Taking antibiotics such as trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole with potassium should also be avoided when consuming potassium gluconate. People with a urinary tract infection, uncontrolled diabetes, a peptic ulcer, Addison’s disease, severe burns or other tissue injury, and those who take certain diuretics and are dehydrated should not use potassium gluconate, according to UMCVC.org. It may also cause severe stomach pain, limp feeling, and numbness or tingling in your hands, feet, or mouth.

Body systems harmed by potassium gluconate

There are several side effects of potassium gluconate that can harm the body systems. Potassium gluconate is bad for the muscular system as it can cause muscle weakness, limp feeling, leg discomfort, and slight tingling and/or numbness in the hands or feet.

Potassium gluconate is also bad for the nervous system because it can cause confusion, anxiety, or feeling of passing out.

Potassium gluconate is harmful for the cardiovascular system for it can cause uneven heartbeat.

Furthermore, potassium gluconate is bad for the respiratory system as it can cause trouble breathing or talking and shortness of breath.

Potassium gluconate is bad for the digestive system as it can cause mild to severe stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and extreme thirst.

Moreover, potassium gluconate is harmful for the integumentary system, particularly the skin. It can cause rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin.

Lastly, potassium gluconate is bad for the excretory system because it can cause an increase in urination and can cause black, bloody, or tarry stools.

Where to learn more

Summary

Potassium gluconate is a mineral supplement that can be harmful to people with hyperkalemia, urinary tract infection, uncontrolled diabetes, a peptic ulcer, Addison’s disease, severe burns or other tissue injury.

Potassium gluconate can cause severe stomach pain, limp feeling, and numbness or tingling in your hands, feet, or mouth.

Potassium gluconate is bad for the muscular, nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, integumentary, and excretory systems.

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