Potklor Potassium Content
Each 1 mL of Potklor contains 2 mEq of elemental potassium 1.
Specific Concentrations
The FDA-approved Potklor (Potassium Chloride for Injection Concentrate, USP) is supplied as:
- 40 mEq per 20 mL vial
- Concentration: 2 mEq/mL
This means:
- 1 mL = 2 mEq potassium
- 5 mL = 10 mEq potassium
- 10 mL = 20 mEq potassium
- 20 mL = 40 mEq potassium
Critical Safety Requirements
Potklor MUST be diluted before administration 1. The concentrate should never be given undiluted, as this is a high-alert medication associated with fatal medication errors 2.
Dilution Guidelines
Per FDA labeling 1:
- Standard concentration after dilution: Up to 40 mEq/L for routine use
- Maximum infusion rate (serum K >2.5 mEq/L): 10 mEq/hour
- Emergency situations (serum K <2.0 mEq/L with ECG changes): Up to 40 mEq/hour with continuous cardiac monitoring
Safety Protocols
The BMJ guidelines emphasize 2:
- Remove concentrated potassium from general clinical areas
- Use pharmacy-prepared dilutions whenever possible
- Institute mandatory double-check policies
- Ensure complete mixing with large volume fluids, especially in bag containers
Research supports that concentrated infusions (200 mEq/L at 20 mEq/hour) can be safely administered in intensive care settings with appropriate monitoring 3, 4, though this exceeds standard FDA recommendations and requires heightened vigilance.