Possible Interactions with Potassium

Overview

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen) may raise blood levels of potassium. ACE inhibitors (such as captopril, enalapril, and lisinopril) can increase blood levels of potassium, particularly when taken with salt substitutes or potassium-sparing diuretics (such as spironolactone, triamterene, or amiloride). Heparin, cyclosporine, trimethoprim, pentamidine and beta-blockers (such as metoprolol and propranolol that are used to treat high blood pressure) may also elevate blood levels of potassium. Consult your health care provider before supplementing with potassium if you are taking any of these medications.

Corticosteroids, amphotericin B, antacids, loop diuretics (such as furosemide and bumetanide), and thiazide diuretics (such as hydrochlorothiazide) lower potassium levels. Insulin also reduces the level of potassium in the blood.

Lower blood levels of potassium increase the likelihood of toxic effects from digoxin. Consult your health care provider to determine if you should take potassium supplements while on this medication.

Drug Interactions

• ACE inhibitors
• Beta-blockers
• Corticosteriod medications
• Cyclosporine
• Digoxin
• Insulin
• Loop diuretics
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Potassium-sparing diuretics
• Thiazide diuretics