Pharmacological properties : תכונות פרמקולוגיות

Pharmacodynamic Properties

5.1   Pharmacodynamic properties

Pharmacotherapeutic group: IV solution additives, electrolyte solutions ATC code: B05X A01

Mechanism of action

Potassium is the most important cation of the intracellular space, approx. 98% of the body's potassium content is intracellular.

Potassium is involved in electrochemical processes of cells and in carbohydrate and protein metabolism.

Potassium deficiency may occur as a result of increased renal excretion, increased gastrointestinal losses (e.g. due to vomiting, diarrhoea or fistulae), increased intracellular potassium uptake (e.g.
during acidosis treatment or glucose-insulin therapy) or inadequate potassium intake.

Hypokalaemia is associated with muscular weakness, atony of the gastrointestinal smooth muscles (constipation or even paralytic ileus), reduced renal concentrating ability, ECG changes and cardiac arrhythmia.

Pharmacokinetic Properties

5.2    Pharmacokinetic properties

Absorption
As the medicinal product is administered intravenously, its bioavailability is 100%.

Distribution

The distribution of potassium follows the normal physiological pathways of potassium metabolism.
The plasma potassium concentration is closely related to the acid-base balance. Alkalosis is frequently associated with hypokalaemia and acidosis with hyperkalaemia. In the case of existing acidosis, normal plasma potassium concentrations indicate a potassium deficiency.

The intracellular potassium concentration is approx. 140–150 mmol/L. The normal serum potassium concentration is between 3.5 and 5 mmol/L.

Elimination

Potassium is mainly excreted via the urine (about 90%) and about 10% via the gastrointestinal tract.