Potassium chloride
Oral 40–80 mmol a day for mild deficiency. IV no faster than 10 mmol/hour peripherally, always diluted. Never a bolus.
On this page
Dose
| Situation | Dose |
|---|---|
| Mild hypokalaemia (3.0–3.4) | 40–80 mmol orally daily in divided doses |
| IV replacement | 20–40 mmol in 500 mL–1 litre, no faster than 10 mmol/hour peripherally |
| Maintenance fluids | About 1 mmol/kg/day added to fluids |
| Severe (central line, monitored) | Up to 20 mmol/hour (HDU/ICU) |
Safety rules
- Never give concentrated KCl undiluted or as a bolus.
- Mix the bag well by inverting it several times.
- Check potassium every 4–6 hours on IV replacement; check magnesium.
- Only add potassium if the patient is passing urine.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum rate of IV potassium?
10 mmol per hour through a peripheral line.
Used in these guides
Sources
Doses on this page are typical doses from the sources above. Always confirm with a current drug reference, the product leaflet and your hospital protocol, especially in children, pregnancy and kidney or liver disease.