Evidence supporting the use of: Potassium Chloride
For the health condition: Dehydration

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 5

Potassium chloride is scientifically validated for use in the management of dehydration, particularly when dehydration is associated with significant electrolyte loss. Dehydration is not just a loss of water but also involves the depletion of vital electrolytes, including sodium and potassium. In clinical practice, especially in cases of moderate to severe dehydration caused by prolonged vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive sweating, potassium levels in the body can drop (hypokalemia). Potassium chloride is included in many oral rehydration solutions (ORS) and intravenous fluids to restore normal potassium levels and prevent complications such as muscle weakness, cardiac arrhythmias, and neurological disturbances.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend the use of potassium chloride as a component of oral rehydration salts used globally to treat dehydration, especially in children with acute diarrhea. The standard WHO ORS formula contains potassium chloride specifically to replace potassium losses. Multiple clinical trials and decades of medical use confirm that inclusion of potassium chloride in rehydration protocols significantly improves patient outcomes and reduces morbidity associated with electrolyte imbalance. Thus, the use of potassium chloride to treat or support dehydration is strongly supported by scientific evidence and clinical guidelines.

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