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Effer-K

Generic name: potassium bicarbonate [poeTAS-de-um-bye-KAR-bo-nate]

Brand names: Effer-K, Klor-Con/EF

What is Effer-K?

Potassium is an element that occurs naturally in foods and is essential for the normal functioning of your body's heart muscle and nerves.The drug Effer-K can be used for the treatment or prevention of the effects of low potassium (hypokalemia).Effer-K is also used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Side effects of Effer-K

Contact a medical professional immediately. If you are experiencing symptoms that indicate an allergy, such as asthma, hives, or swelling of your lips, face, or tongue,Effer-K may cause serious side effects. Stop using Effer-K immediately and consult your physician immediately. If you suffer from:

  • Confusion;
  • Irregular or rapid heartbeats;
  • Feeling faint;
  • A feeling of heaviness or weakness in your legs
  • Tingling or numbness in your feet or hands
  • Uncommon fatigue;
  • Trouble breathing
  • Bloody, black, or tarry stool;
  • Abdominal pains or cramps that are severe; excessive stomach pain or cramping
  • High potassium: nausea, weak and tingling sensations, chest pain, irregular heartbeats, or a loss of movement.

Common adverse effects of Effer-K could be:

  • Nausea, vomiting;
  • Diarrhea;
  • Upset stomach.

This is not a comprehensive list of possible side effects, and other side effects could be present. Contact your doctor immediately if any adverse effects arise and report symptoms directly to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

It is recommended not to take Effer-K when you are also taking diuretics with potassium like amiloride, eplerenone, spironolactone, or triamterene.

Before you take this drug

Do not use EfferK if:

  • You have high levels of potassium in your blood.
  • You can also take potassium-sparing diuretics such as amiloride, eplerenone, and spironolactone. You can also take triamterene or

Consult a pharmacist or doctor for a recommendation on whether this medication is suitable for you if you previously had:

  • Heart problems, irregular heartbeats;
  • Diabetes;
  • A severe burn injury;
  • An ulcer or any other issues in your stomach or intestines,
  • Addison's disorder (an adrenal gland disorder);
  • An allergic reaction to a substance that contains potassium
  • Kidney disease
  • If you are dehydrated.

Consult a physician before using this medicine if you are nursing or pregnant.Don't give the medication to an infant without a medical recommendation.

How to take Effer-K?

Follow exactly the instructions on the label or as recommended by your physician.Drop the tablet into a glass filled with a minimum of 4 ounces of water. Let the tablet dissolve completely. Take a sip slowly, in 5–10 minutes.Make sure to take your doses regularly to maintain a consistent quantity of potassium in your system throughout the day.Consume Effer-K in conjunction with food or just after eating.There is a chance that you will require regular medical tests. Even if you don't have symptoms, tests can aid your doctor in determining the effectiveness of Effer-K.It is not recommended to stop taking Effer-K unless you first consult your physician.Place the medicine in its original container at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Store every tablet in the aluminum pouch until you're ready to take the medication.

What happens if I miss the dose?

Do not take the medicine for as long as you can. However, do not take your missed dose if it's nearing the time to take the next dose. Don't have two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

For medical emergencies, seek emergency medical attention or contact for help at the Poison Helpline at 1-800-222-1222.

What should be avoided?

Do not take any other salt supplements, potassium supplements, or foods that are low in sodium unless your doctor has instructed you to.

Interaction with other drugs

Consult a physician or pharmacist prior to using Effer-K in conjunction with other medications, including:

  • Heart or blood pressure medication;
  • Diuretic, also known as a "water pill";
  • The nsaids (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are aspirin, Ibuprofen, aspirin (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), celecoxib, diclofenac (also known as indomethacin), diclofe, and many others.

This list isn't exhaustive. Other medications can affect Effer-K, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. The interactions of all drugs are included here.

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Prescription only

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