Indications  

Klor-Con M20 is a mineral supplement indicated for treating hypokalemia (low blood potassium levels) due to metabolic alkalosis, digitalis intoxication, or hypokalemic familial periodic paralysis. If diuretic therapy causes hypokalemia, consider reducing the dosage to avoid exacerbating potassium deficiency. 

Klor-Con M20 may also be prescribed to prevent hypokalemia in high-risk patients, such as those on digitalis medication or with notable cardiac arrhythmias. 

As a potassium replenisher, Klor-Con M20 works by restoring lost potassium and preventing deficiency, thereby enhancing the optimal functioning of cells, kidneys, heart, muscles, and nerves. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Klor-Con M20 and every time you get a refill, thoroughly review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any inquiries or apprehensions. 

The dosage of Klor-Con M20 is individualized and modified according to each patient’s needs and response to treatment.  

• To prevent hypokalemia, the usual daily dose ranges from 20 mEq. 
• Treatment of potassium depletion may necessitate higher doses, typically ranging from 40 to 100 mEq or higher per day. If the daily dose surpasses 20 mEq, it should be divided into multiple doses, ensuring that no more than 20 mEq is administered simultaneously. 

Take Klor-Con M20 alongside a meal and a full glass of water to minimize the risk of stomach discomfort unless instructed otherwise by your physician. Allow a minimum of 10 minutes before reclining after ingesting this supplement. 

Klor-Con M20 tablets should be ingested whole. Refrain from crushing, chewing, or sucking on them, as this can cause the immediate release of the entire medication, heightening the likelihood of adverse effects. 

Patients having trouble swallowing whole tablets may explore the following alternative methods of administration: 

• Divide the tablet in half and take each half separately with a glass of water. 
• Prepare a water-based suspension using the following steps: 
  1. Place the intact tablet(s) in ½ a glass of water (4 fluid ounces). 
  2. Allow the tablet(s) to disintegrate for approximately 2 minutes. 
  3. Stir the mixture for approximately 30 seconds after complete disintegration. 
  4. Swirl the mixture and promptly consume all the liquid in the glass by drinking or using a straw. 
  5. Add an additional 1 fluid ounce of water, swirl, and consume immediately. 
  6. Finally, add another 1 fluid ounce of water, swirl, and consume immediately. 

Any aqueous suspension of Klor-Con M20 that is not taken immediately should be discarded. The use of other liquids to suspend this supplement is not recommended. 

Take Klor-Con M20 consistently at the same time(s) every day, exactly as directed. Refrain from altering the dosage or frequency of intake without consulting your doctor. 

Inform your doctor if your condition does not progress or if you exhibit indications of hypokalemia, such as irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, or cramps. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Klor-Con M20. Notify your doctor right away if any of them last or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Stomach pain or diarrhea 
• Upset stomach or throwing up 
• Gas 

Serious Side Effects 

• Indications of elevated potassium levels: 
  • Irregular heartbeat 
  • Impaired cognitive function and logical thinking 
  • Weakness 
  • Lightheadedness 
  • Dizziness 
  • Fainting sensation 
  • Numbness or tingling 
  • Shortness of breath 
• Slow heartbeat 
• Chest discomfort or pressure 
• Indications of bowel problems: 
  • Dark, tarry, or bloody stools 
  • Fever 
  • Presence of mucus in the stools 
  • Vomiting blood or vomit resembling coffee grounds 
  • Severe abdominal pain 
  • Constipation 
  • Diarrhea 
• Abdominal swelling 

Call your doctor at once and ask for medical help if you experience any of the severe side effects listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Severe allergic reactions to Klor-Con M20 are uncommon; however, seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as: 

• Rash 
• Hives 
• Itching 
• Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever) 
• Wheezing 
• Tightness in the chest or throat 
• Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking 
• Unusual hoarseness 
• Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, throat, or tongue 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Klor-Con M20. If you experience any unlisted effects, inform your doctor promptly. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Klor-Con M20, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to potassium, other medications, or any ingredients present in Klor-Con M20 tablets. 

To ensure Klor-Con M20 is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, specifically if you have a history of: 

• Heart problems 
• Kidney problems 
• Elevated levels of potassium in the blood 

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all your medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, other dietary supplements, and herbal products, to lower the risk of potential drug interactions with Klor-Con M20. 

Notify your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you are regularly using other medications or products known for their potential to raise potassium levels, including: 

• Eplerenone 
• ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril, lisinopril) 
• Angiotensin receptor blockers (e.g., losartan, valsartan) 
• Potassium-sparing diuretics like spironolactone, triamterene 
• Birth control pills containing drospirenone 
• Others 

Inform your physician or pharmacist if you are also taking medications that can potentially impede the movement of potassium in your stomach or intestines, as this may heighten the likelihood of side effects such as ulcers. Examples of such medications include: 

• Atropine 
• Scopolamine 
• Certain antihistamines (diphenhydramine) 
• Antispasmodic drugs (e.g., dicyclomine/hyoscyamine) 
• Bladder control medications (e.g., oxybutynin/tolterodine) 
• Specific drugs for Parkinson’s disease (benztropine/trihexyphenidyl, among others) 

Seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist before taking other potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium, as excessive intake may result in severe adverse reactions. 

Klor-Con M20 should only be taken during pregnancy if necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits of this supplement with your doctor prior to intake. 

Potassium can be transferred into breast milk. Consult your doctor before nursing an infant when taking this supplement.