1. What is Potassium Oral Repletion?

Potassium oral repletion is the process of correcting potassium deficiency through oral administration of potassium supplements. The required dose depends on the potassium deficit and the absorption efficiency of the supplement.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the potassium repletion formula:

Where:

• \( Deficit \) — Potassium deficit in milliequivalents (mEq)
• \( Absorption Rate \) — Fraction of potassium absorbed (typically 0.6-0.8 for oral supplements)

Explanation: The equation calculates the total oral dose needed to compensate for both the deficit and the expected loss due to incomplete absorption.

3. Importance of Potassium Repletion

Details: Proper potassium repletion is essential for maintaining normal cellular function, nerve conduction, and muscle contraction. Both over- and under-repletion can have serious consequences.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter potassium deficit in mEq and absorption rate (typically 0.7 for most potassium supplements). All values must be valid (deficit > 0, absorption rate between 0-1).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical potassium absorption rate?
A: Most oral potassium supplements have an absorption rate of about 60-80% (0.6-0.8).

Q2: How is potassium deficit calculated?
A: Deficit is often estimated based on serum potassium levels, with general guidelines of 100-200 mEq deficit per 1 mEq/L decrease below normal.

Q3: How should oral potassium be dosed?
A: Divided doses are recommended to minimize GI side effects, typically 20-40 mEq per dose with meals.

Q4: When is IV potassium preferred?
A: IV potassium is used for severe hypokalemia (<2.5 mEq/L), cardiac manifestations, or when oral administration isn't possible.

Q5: What are signs of over-repletion?
A: Hyperkalemia symptoms include muscle weakness, paresthesias, ECG changes (peaked T waves, widened QRS), and cardiac arrhythmias.