Hi everyone! I have started Hydrocobalamin injections (1000ug every other day). I ran a blood test prior to injections to verify potassium levels. Potassium levels are on the low normal range (a couple months previous was potassium deficient but cleared off with prescribed supplements). It’s difficult to meet the daily recommended intake of potassium (4700 mg). I have found an electrolyte supplement that provides 1000 ug potassium citrate (Dr Berg electrolytes- Amazon). I might supplement with this in addition to my diet. Could this interrupt b12 absorption? Reason that I ask is because I’ve been experiencing slight muscle twitching after the 2nd day of injection, which may be due to low potassium..
Thank you!
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Dolansan
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Initial treatment with B12 injections can result in lower levels of potassium...but only where macrocytic (large red cell) anaemia is present. This usually only impacts in the first weeks of treatment with B12 injections.
It would not usually be appropriate to take electrolyte powders to try to maintain potassium levels as these powders also contain other electrolytes, which your body may not need (electrolytes are finally balanced and you may end up with an electrolyte imbalance).
Potsssium is finely balanced in the body and too much can be as dangerous as too little (either can potentially result in cardiac arrest).
Most can manage adequately by increasing potassium in the diet. However, in view of your history of previously low potassium, it would be much safer to ask your GP to check your potassium levels and prescribe accordingly, if required, then monitor potassium levels to ensure your levels don't become too low again.
It may also be the case that if your potassium levels have dropped again, it might be nothing to do with the B12 injections (it only happens when macrocytic anaemia is present). It may rather be a reoccurrence of whatever problem caused your previously low potassium levels. If that’s the case, your GP should be involved and want to monitor your levels and try to determine any potential cause - especially if this turns out to be a reoccurring problem.
Folic acid deficiency (amongst other things) can also cause low potassium levels - have you had your folate levels checked?
Interestingly, I recall reading recently - though I can't remember where - recommendations that the the RDA for potassium be reduced to 2,400mg.
Taking potassium via electrolyte powders won't interrupt B12 absorption but getting potassium (or electrolyte) balance wrong or missing other potential causes for low potassium could be quite dangerous.
For this reason, we never advise taking any form of potassium supplements so please, if you suspect your potassium levels are low again, do consult with an appropriately qualified medical professional. This is especially important given that you’ve had issues with low potassium before.
Thank you. I didn’t realize there was a connection between macrocytic cells and potassium deficiency.. hence on the average person there should let be much concern. I’ll as my GP to monitor my blood every few weeks just in case any deviations occur. Thanks again!
No one should take a potassium supplement, it is too risky. The only time is when a doctor has prescribed it and is monitoring the patient.
I feel the need to be blunt, and reiterate what Foggyme already stated, in case someone is reading/simply scanning and decides to supplement on their own.
Potassium is an intracellular ion, that means most of it is found inside cells and not in plasma, so plasma levels may not give a true reading of potassium deficiency. It is possible for plasma levels to be normal and body levels to be low.Taken correctly ie very slowly and well diluted in water, it is not dangerous — unless you have poor kidney function or heart problems.
I still believe that people should not be taking a potassium supplement on their own accord. And I say it so bluntly because people have come here quite a few times taking them and not realizing it is a delicate balance for the kidney and heart. I also have a friend who has told me that they have had people in care simply because of this error in judgement
Great information on plasma levels possibly not giving an accurate assessment.
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