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Potassium CitratePrecautionsBefore taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: a certain adrenal gland problem (Addison's disease), bladder infection, diabetes, low calcium levels, severe diarrhea, heart problems (such as irregular heartbeat, heart attack), kidney problems, potassium-restricted diet, high potassium levels, stomach/intestinal problems (such as blockage, constipation, ulcers), dehydration. Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding. Side EffectsNausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain may occur. Taking it after meals will help prevent these side effects. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. An empty tablet shell may appear in your stool. This is harmless because your body has already absorbed the medication. Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. This drug may cause serious stomach or intestinal problems (such as bleeding, blockage, puncture). Tell your doctor right away if any of these serious side effects occur: abdominal swelling, black/bloody stools, constipation, dizziness, fast heartbeat, severe stomach/abdominal pain, difficult/painful swallowing, severe vomiting, vomit that looks like coffee grounds. This medication may cause high potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia). Tell your doctor right away if any of these serious side effects occur: muscle cramps/weakness, severe dizziness, slow/irregular heartbeat, mental/mood changes (such as confusion, restlessness), tingling of the hands/feet, unusually cold skin. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345. |