Urocit-K

The active ingredient in Urocit-K is potassium citrate, which is an alkalinizing agent. When this medication is taken orally, it makes the urine less acidic by increasing levels of urinary citrate. A less acidic urine can help decrease the formation of uric acid and calcium stones. Additionally, raising potassium levels can also help to reduce calcium within the body, further contributing to a decreased formation of these stones.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Urocit-K. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Urocit-K:

• Urocit-K should be used exactly as prescribed.
• The dose you take will depend on what is being treated. Potassium can irritate the lining of the stomach. If taken multiple times a day, it is recommended to take Urocit-K with meals or with a bedtime snack to help minimize irritation.
• Certain foods may contain a high level of potassium, and your prescriber may recommend you decrease your intake of such foods while taking Urocit-K.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

The most common side effects of Urocit-K include:

• Stomach discomfort
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loose bowel movements
• Parts of the undigested tablet in your stools

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Urocit-K. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Signs of high potassium levels, including heart palpitations, irregular heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, muscle weakness or numbness, severe nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain. In some cases, when the potassium level gets too high, cardiac arrest can occur. Any of these symptoms should be followed up on promptly.
• Stomach bleeding or damage, with symptoms such as bloody, black, or tarry stools, vomiting blood, severe vomiting, and severe stomach pain.
• Allergic reactions, with symptoms like skin rash, itching, hives, and swelling of your face, tongue, or throat.

These are not all of the possible side effects of potassium citrate. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Urocit-K, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• High blood potassium levels
• Heart problems, including heart failure
• Severe vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Signs of a stomach bleed, such as dark tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, or blood in either

Do not use Urocit-K if you have:

• Hyperkalemia (high blood potassium levels) or are taking other medications that increase your potassium levels
• Kidney disease
• Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
• Dehydration
• Adrenal insufficiency
• Slow stomach emptying or a GI obstruction
• A history of peptic ulcer disease
• An active bladder or urinary tract infection

Urocit-K typically starts to work right after the first dose, but the timeline for full benefit varies depending on what is being treated.

When Urocit-K is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Potassium-sparing diuretics such as triamterene, spironolactone, or amiloride
• Potassium supplements such as potassium chloride or potassium bicarbonate
• Drugs that slow down stomach motility, such as anticholinergics
• Digoxin
• Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone inhibitors, including ACEi, ARBs, spironolactone, eplerenone, or aliskiren
• NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen, ASA, ketorolac, or naproxen
• Potassium salts

Urocit-K extended-release tablets are available in the following strengths:

• 5 mEq
• 10 mEq
• 15 mEq

Urocit-K should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture, and out of reach of children.

Urocit-K is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Mission Pharmacal Company.

Yes, there is a generic available for the brand-name Urocit-K.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while taking Urocit-K.

It is unknown whether Urocit-K can cause harm to the unborn child. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

The effects of Urocit-K on breastfeeding are unknown. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.