Potassium Supplements: Who Should Avoid Them? Risks & Interactions

Potassium deficiencies can cause serious problems including muscle weakness, stroke, high blood pressure and osteoporosis, but not everyone is a candidate for potassium supplements. Certain drugs and kidney problems, especially, can inhibit the body's absorption of potassium; taking a supplement may cause a potentially fatal overdose. As with any drug, check with your doctor if you are currently on prescription medications or have an existing chronic condition.

Drug Interactions

• If you take medication for diabetes, heart disease or asthma, do not take potassium supplements without doctor approval.

Conditions

• Never take potassium supplements without a doctor's consent if you suffer from kidney disease, stomach problems, Addison's disease or health problems requiring antibiotics.

Gastrointestinal Problems

• Even low doses of a potassium supplement can cause abdominal pains for individuals with gastrointestinal problems, but this alone is typically not a symptom of a serious problem.

Diuretics

• Some diuretics are designed to spare potassium in the blood, so someone taking diuretics should not add potassium supplements.

Overdose

• Symptoms of a potassium overdose include low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, stomach pain, confusion, weakness or tingling in the arms or legs, and coma. Get emergency help immediately.

Diet

• Consider a dietary change as an alternative to potassium supplements. A low-sodium diet with plenty of tomatoes, potatoes, avocados, bananas, citrus fruits, unsalted nuts, milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, and green, leafy vegetables will provide plenty of potassium.