Potrate 5

Uses
Potrate 5 (Potassium Citrate) acts on the urine, causing its acidity level to decrease. Patients use it for the prevention of gout and kidney stones or to treat renal tubular acidosis (a disorder which causes acid to accumulate inside the body). The active ingredient in this medicine is a potassium salt which is in a class of medicines referred to as urinary alkalinizers.

When administered, it can help the kidneys to remove uric acid. This is important, because too much uric acid levels can lead to kidney stones (sometimes called renal calculus) or gout. It can also help to prevent cystine stones from being formed (stones which are formed by a chemical known as cystine). Clinical trials conducted showed that it can decrease the formation of stones in the majority of patients treated with it.

Dosage and Administration
Potrate 5 (Potassium Citrate) is provided as specially formulated extended release tablets. The medicine content of each tablet is 540mg. In addition to treatment with this medicine, your doctor will most likely tell you to avoid consuming foods that contain high levels of salt and to consume sufficient fluids. Generally, the goal of treatment is to ensure the normalisation of urinary citrate and pH levels. Your doctor will determine the correct dosage and in addition to this, regular electrocardiograms will be needed. Do not take more than the amount your doctor tells you to take.

Side effects
Patients undergoing treatment with Potrate 5 (Potassium Citrate) might experience side effects, such as:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loose stools
• Stomach disturbances
• A tablet visible in the stools

Visit your doctor when required and report any side effects that occur. Severe reactions are less common. You must immediately seek medical attention if you notice symptoms of hyperkalaemia, intestinal disorders, bloody stools or any other serious side effects that have not been listed here.

Precautions
Do not chew or crush the tablets, as this may affect the extended release mechanism.

Only use this medicine as your doctor directs you.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Potrate 5 (Potassium Citrate) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.