Potassium: When to Take It & How to Track It

What is Potassium?

Potassium is a mineral the kidneys, heart, muscles and nerves need to work properly. Fruit, vegetables, beans, dairy and fish are good sources. In healthy people with normal kidney function, the kidneys remove extra potassium. Problems arise when kidney disease or certain medicines change how much potassium the body keeps, which can push blood levels too high or too low. That is why potassium supplements are usually used under medical advice, and why tracking them alongside blood pressure medicines is useful.

When to take Potassium: general timing information

• ACE inhibitors (such as benazepril) and angiotensin receptor blockers (such as losartan) reduce potassium loss and can make levels too high, especially in people with kidney problems. [1]

• Potassium-sparing diuretics such as spironolactone can also raise potassium, while loop and thiazide diuretics can lower it. [2]

• Salt substitutes often contain potassium. If you have kidney disease or take these medicines, they could push your potassium too high. [1]

• Potassium from food has not been shown to cause harm in healthy people with normal kidney function. [1]

How to set a Potassium reminder in Pillzy

1. 1

   Tap + in Pillzy and add your potassium supplement with the dose your doctor prescribed.

2. 2

   Add your blood pressure medicines too, so they all sit in one schedule.

3. 3

   Set the frequency and Meal Timing written on your prescription label.

4. 4

   Add a note to mention any salt substitute you use.

5. 5

   Mark each dose taken and bring your history to blood test appointments.