Question:
Do I need my dr's permission to take potassium

I posted this question yesterday, but it didn't make it into the top 10, so I think it got missed. I can't tolerate bananas; but I know I need potassium. I've been getting leg cramps at night and I know that's a sign of a potassium defiency. So, I want to know if I should get myself some potassium pills (i.e., www.vitalady.com), or do I need to wait for blood tests and a visit to my surgeon? If so, I'll have to wait 6 months before I see him again. Thanks for any responses.    — [Anonymous] (posted on December 4, 2001)

December 4, 2001
although I'm pre-op, my surgeon does not want us to take potassium for 1 year post-op because he said it works on the stomach like an NSAID. He explained there was a greater chance of ulcer and stomach upset with this. Maybe you should call your surgeon or PCP and see about having lab work done. I'm not sure if there is a shot for potassium, but I know it can be replenished via IV.
   — Tina P.

December 4, 2001
Your PCP should be willing to run that test for you and let you know. The over the counter potassium are not caustic, generally, like Rx. If it was, I could never take them. After much trial & error I know it takes 4 per day to hold my potassium levels right smack mid-level. But that's with labs. It's not an expensive test to run, so I'm sure your PCP would agree to it vs meeting you in ER with totally whacked electolytes at 3am some morning. Potassium IS sold OTC, but it messes with your heart & stuff. It's a pretty specific body chemical, so I'd not mess with it without a lab report. And that also is a fast test, not 2 weeks.
   — vitalady

December 4, 2001
I have very low potassium levels. But to much potassium can cause very serious problems too. Please get your blood checked to make sure. As far as pills, they did'nt work for me. (The doctor prescribed them). I finally had to get the liquid potassium which tastes like vile bitter salt... it's terrible but beats getting a heartattack, or having potassium by IV which I've had done twice. If you have to get the liquid form then I would suggest getting Minute Maid Orange Passion. That flavor helps cover "some" of the bad taste of the potassium.
   — Danmark