Medications and Potassium

When someone is on medication that the doctor proscribed or over the counter medicines there is a chance he is taking a prescription drug that lowers his potassium level. These medications lower potassium: antacids, theophylline, laxatives, corticosteriods, some diuretics, and insulin.

The opposite is also true. Some medications that may raise potassium levels are: trimethoprim, thiazide diuretics, hesparin, beta-blockers, and cyclosporine.

In the case of lowering potassium through use of diuretics taking dandelion supplements will do the job of diuretics, but they have potassium in them to replace what is lost. It is a natural part of the dandelion plant. Asking your doctor's advice is advised. The best cure for constipation is a high fiber diet so that you don't need laxatives and that won't be a way to lose potassium anymore.

Coffee and alcohol may cause you to excrete more potassium in your urine. If your potassium is low you may want to decrease your intake of these beverages. One of the medicines that doctor's use for treatment of abnormal heart rhythms is digoxin, if the patient's potassium is low there is a higher chance of a toxic problem when taking this drug.

It is always a good habit to keep your potassium up by eating foods rich in the mineral; this will help your body function normally. Many vegetables, fruits, fish, meats, nuts, and whole grains have good amounts of potassium. The fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables are better sources of potassium than canned. When you can't eat right a potassium supplement is a good way to get this important mineral.

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