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|Articles|September 3, 2021
Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Hypokalemia and Hyperkalemia
Author(s)Saro Arakelians, PharmD
Kidney disease is among the most common causes of both hyperkalemia and hypokalemia.
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Clinical Pearl of the Day: Hypokalemia and Hyperkalemia
- Hyperkalemia is high potassium levels.
- Hypokalemia is low potassium levels.
Explanation:
- Normal potassium levels in the body: 3.6- 5.2 (mmol/L).
- Most common causes of hyperkalemia include acute and chronic kidney disease, as well as medications.
- Most common causes of hypokalemia include medication use, such as water pills and kidney disease, as well as alcohol consumption.
- Hyperkalemia treatment options: Patiromer (Veltassa), sodium zirconium (Lokelma)
- Hypokalemia treatment options: Klor-Con, K-Tab, potassium chloride
Reference:
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