Is long-term use of potassium chloride sustained-release tablets harmful to the body?

Potassium chloride sustained-release tablets are clinically indicated for the treatment of hypokalemia caused by various conditions. They help replenish potassium ions, maintain electrolyte balance, and stabilize the internal environment of the body. However, long-term use of potassium chloride sustained-release tablets can generally be harmful, often leading to hyperkalemia, which may cause symptoms such as arrhythmias, muscle weakness, or gastrointestinal discomfort.

1. Arrhythmias

Long-term use of potassium chloride sustained-release tablets may lead to hyperkalemia, which is typically highly toxic to the heart. It can trigger arrhythmias, induce atrioventricular conduction block, and result in cardiac arrest. Severe cases can even be life-threatening.

2. Muscle Weakness

Hyperkalemia caused by prolonged use of potassium chloride sustained-release tablets usually causes patients to experience muscle pain and weakness. In severe cases, it may lead to flaccid paralysis of limb muscles, affecting normal walking and movement. If respiratory muscles are involved, it may result in asphyxia or respiratory failure.

3. Gastrointestinal Discomfort

Hyperkalemia due to long-term use of potassium chloride sustained-release tablets is often accompanied by azotemia or metabolic acidosis, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.