Label: POTASSIUM CHLORIDE injection, solution, concentrate

  • Category: HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABEL
  • DEA Schedule: None
  • Marketing Status: Abbreviated New Drug Application

Drug Label Information

Updated February 21, 2022

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  • SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION

    Y36-003-064 LD-710-2

    Prescribing Information

    EXCEL® CONTAINER

    Potassium Chloride for Injection Concentrate USP
    500 mEq/250 mL (2 mEq/mL)

    PHARMACY BULK PACKAGE
    NOT FOR DIRECT INFUSION

    FOR INTRAVENOUS INFUSION ONLY

    MUST BE DILUTED PRIOR TO INJECTION

    Rx only

  • DESCRIPTION

    A pharmacy bulk package is a container of a sterile preparation for parenteral use that contains many single doses. The contents are intended for use in a pharmacy admixture service and are restricted to the preparation of admixtures for intravenous infusion. 

    Potassium Chloride for Injection Concentrate USP is a sterile, nonpyrogenic, concentrated solution of Potassium Chloride USP in Water for Injection USP to be administered by intravenous infusion only after dilution in a larger volume of fluid. No bacteriostatic or antimicrobial agent has been added.

    Each 100 mL of Potassium Chloride contains:

    Potassium Chloride USP 14.9 g; Water for Injection USP qs

    pH: 5.4 (4.0–8.0); Calculated Osmolarity: 4000 mOsmol/liter

    Concentration of Electrolytes (mEq/mL): Potassium 2; Chloride 2

    The formula of the active ingredient is:

    Ingredient Molecular Formula Molecular Weight
     Potassium Chloride USP KCl 74.55

    Potassium chloride injection (approximately diluted) is a parenteral fluid and electrolyte replenisher.

    Excel container not made with natural rubber latex, PVC or DEHP.

    The plastic container is made from a multi-layered film specifically developed for parenteral drugs. The solution contact layer is a rubberized copolymer of ethylene and propylene. The container is nontoxic and biologically inert. The container-solution unit is a closed system and is not dependent upon entry of external air during admixing. The container is overwrapped to provide protection from the physical environment and to provide an additional moisture barrier when necessary.

    The closure system has two ports; the one for the suitable transfer device or compounding set has a tamper evident plastic protector and the other is a non-accessible blocked port. Refer to the Directions for Use of the container.

  • CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

    Potassium is the chief cation of body cells (160 mEq/liter of intracellular water) and is concerned with the maintenance of body fluid composition and electrolyte balance. Potassium participates in carbohydrate utilization and protein synthesis, and is critical in the regulation of nerve conduction and muscle contraction, particularly in the heart. Chloride, the major extracellular anion, closely follows the metabolism of sodium and changes in the acid-base balance of the body are reflected by changes in the chloride concentration.

    Normally about 80 to 90% of the potassium intake is excreted in the urine, the remainder in the stools and to a small extent, in the perspiration. The kidney does not conserve potassium well so that during fasting, or in patients on a potassium-free diet, potassium loss from the body continues resulting in potassium depletion. A deficiency of either potassium or chloride will lead to a deficit of the other.

  • INDICATIONS AND USAGE

    Potassium Chloride for Injection Concentrate USP is indicated in the treatment of potassium deficiency states when oral replacement is not feasible.

    This is a concentrated solution which is intended for use in a pharmacy admixture service and is restricted to the preparation of admixtures for intravenous infusion.

  • CONTRAINDICATIONS

    Potassium Chloride for Injection Concentrate USP is contraindicated in diseases where high potassium levels may be encountered, in patients with hyperkalemia, renal failure and in conditions in which potassium retention is present, or where additives of potassium and chloride could be clinically detrimental.

  • WARNINGS

    Strongly Hypertonic Solution. Must be properly diluted and thoroughly mixed before injection.

    Potentially Fatal Cardiac Adverse Reactions with Undiluted Intravenous Administration

    Direct patient injection of potassium chloride at this concentration may be instantaneously fatal. Potassium Chloride for Injection Concentrate must be diluted before administration. Fatal cardiac arrhythmia and cardiac arrest have occurred when potassium chloride was administered in an undiluted form.

    To avoid potassium intoxication, do not infuse these solutions rapidly. In patients with renal insufficiency, administration of potassium chloride may cause potassium intoxication and life-threatening hyperkalemia.

    The administration of intravenous solutions can cause fluid and/or solute overload resulting in dilution of serum electrolyte concentrations, overhydration, congested states or pulmonary edema. The risk of dilutional states is inversely proportional to the electrolyte concentration.

    The risk of solute overload causing congested states with peripheral and pulmonary edema is directly proportional to the electrolyte concentration.

    In patients with diminished renal function, administration of solutions containing potassium ions may result in potassium retention.

    This product contains aluminum that may be toxic. Aluminum may reach toxic levels with prolonged parenteral administration if kidney function is impaired. Premature neonates are particularly at risk because their kidneys are immature, and they require large amounts of calcium and phosphate solutions, which contain aluminum. Research indicates that patients with impaired kidney function, including premature neonates, who receive parenteral levels of aluminum at greater than 4 to 5 mcg/kg/day accumulate aluminum at levels associated with central nervous system and bone toxicity. Tissue loading may occur at even lower rates of administration.

    The drug product contains no more than 25 mcg/L of aluminum.  

  • PRECAUTIONS

    General

    Clinical evaluation and periodic laboratory determinations are necessary to monitor changes in fluid balance, electrolyte concentrations, and acid-base balance during prolonged parenteral therapy or whenever the condition of the patient warrants such evaluation. Significant deviations from normal concentrations may require the use of additional electrolyte supplements, or the use of electrolyte-free dextrose solutions to which individualized electrolyte supplements may be added.

    Potassium therapy should be guided primarily by serial electrocardiograms, especially in patients receiving digitalis. Serum potassium levels are not necessarily indicative of tissue potassium levels. Solutions containing potassium should be used with caution in the presence of cardiac disease, particularly in the presence of renal disease, and in such instances, cardiac monitoring is recommended.

    Solutions containing potassium in a greater concentration than 40 mEq/liter may result in significant irritation to peripheral or central veins.

    For peripheral administration of solutions containing potassium, slowly infuse the solution through a small bore needle, placed well within the lumen of a large vein. Carefully avoid infiltration.

    Solutions containing dextrose should be used with caution in patients with overt or known subclinical diabetes mellitus, or carbohydrate intolerance for any reason.

    If the administration is controlled by a pumping device, care must be taken to discontinue pumping action before the container runs dry or air embolism may result.

    To minimize the risk of possible incompatibilities arising from mixing this solution with other additives that may be prescribed, the final infusate should be inspected for cloudiness or precipitation immediately after mixing, prior to administration, and periodically during administration.

    Use only if solution is clear and container and seals are intact. Discard container within 4 hours after initial puncture.

    Pregnancy: (I) Teratogenic effects.


    Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with potassium chloride injection. It is also not known whether potassium chloride injection can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. Potassium chloride injection should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed.

  • ADVERSE REACTIONS

    Reactions which may occur because of the potassium-containing solutions or the technique of administration include febrile response, infection at the site of injection, venous thrombosis or phlebitis extending from the site of injection or extravasation, hypervolemia, and hyperkalemia.

    To rapid infusion of hypertonic solutions may cause local pain and, rarely, vein irritation. Rate of administration should be adjusted according to tolerance.

    Reactions reported with the use of potassium-containing solutions include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea. The signs and symptoms of potassium intoxication include paresthesias of the extremities, areflexia, muscular or respiratory paralysis, mental confusion, weakness, hypotension, cardiac arrhythmias, heart block, electrocardiographic abnormalities and cardiac arrest. Potassium deficits result in disruption of neuromuscular function, and intestinal ileus and dilatation.

    If infused in large amounts, chloride ions may cause a loss of bicarbonate ions, resulting in an acidifying effect.

    Potassium-containing solutions are intrinsically irritating to tissues. Therefore, extreme care should be taken to avoid perivascular infiltration. Local tissue necrosis and subsequent sloughing may result if extravasation occurs. Chemical phlebitis and venospasm have also been reported.

    If an adverse reaction does occur, discontinue the infusion, evaluate the patient, institute appropriate therapeutic countermeasures and save the remainder of the fluid for examination if deemed necessary.

  • OVERDOSAGE

    In the event of fluid overload during parenteral therapy, reevaluate the patient's condition and institute appropriate corrective treatment.

    In the event of overdosage with potassium-containing solutions, discontinue the infusion immediately and institute corrective therapy to reduce serum potassium levels.

    Treatment of hyperkalemia includes the following:

    1. Dextrose Injection USP, 10% or 25%, containing 10 units of crystalline insulin per 20 grams of dextrose administered intravenously, 300 to 500 mL per hour.
    2. Absorption and exchange of potassium using sodium or ammonium cycle cation exchange resin, orally and as retention enema.
    3. Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. The use of potassium-containing foods or medications must be eliminated. However, in cases of digitalization, too rapid a lowering of plasma potassium concentration can cause digitalis toxicity.
  • DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

    Not for direct patient injection. Potassium Chloride for Injection Concentrate USP, Pharmacy Bulk Package is for preparation of intravenous admixtures only and must be diluted before administration. Care must be taken to ensure there is complete mixing of the potassium chloride with the large volume fluid, particularly if soft or bag type containers are used.

    Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.

    Dosage and rate of administration are to be directed by the physician and are dependent upon the specific conditions of each patient (e.g., age, weight, clinical condition of the patient and laboratory determinations). Frequent laboratory determinations and clinical evaluation are essential to monitor changes in electrolyte concentrations, and fluid and electrolyte balance during prolonged parenteral therapy.

    If the serum potassium level is greater than 2.5 mEq/liter, potassium can be given at a rate not to exceed 10 mEq/hour and in a concentration of up to 40 mEq/liter. The 24 hour total dose should not exceed 200 mEq.

    If urgent treatment is indicated (serum potassium level less than 2.0 mEq/liter and electrocardiographic changes and/or muscle paralysis), potassium chloride may be infused very cautiously at a rate of up to 40 mEq/hour. In such cases, continuous cardiac monitoring is essential. As much as 400 mEq may be administered in a 24 hour period. In critical conditions, potassium chloride may be administered in saline (unless contraindicated) rather than in dextrose containing fluids, as dextrose may lower serum potassium levels.

    Directions for Use of Pharmacy Bulk Packages in EXCEL® Container with Blocked Medication Port

    Warning: Not for direct infusion. For preparation of admixtures for intravenous infusion.

    The Pharmacy Bulk Package is for use in a Pharmacy Admixture Service only. Use of this product is restricted to a suitable work area, such as a laminar flow hood (or an equivalent clean air compounding area).

    Additives should not be made to Pharmacy Bulk Packages.

    Caution: Do not use plastic containers in series connection.

    To Open

    Tear overwrap down at notch and remove solution container. Check for minute leaks by squeezing solution container firmly. If leaks are found, discard solution as sterility may be impaired.

    NOTE: Before use, perform the following checks:

    Inspect each container. Read the label. Ensure solution is the one ordered and is within the expiration date.

    Invert container and carefully inspect the solution in good light for cloudiness, haze, or particulate matter. Any container which is suspect should not be used.

    Use only if solution is clear and container and seals are intact.

    Preparation for Admixing
    1. Remove plastic protector from sterile set port at bottom of container.
    2. Attach suitable transfer device or compounding set. Refer to complete directions accompanying device.

    Do Not Add Medication
    Transfer individual dose(s) to appropriate intravenous infusion solutions. Use of a syringe with needle is not recommended. Multiple entries increase the potential of microbial and particulate contamination. The container closure may be penetrated only one time, utilizing a suitable sterile dispensing set which allows measured dispensing of the contents.

    For Pharmacy Bulk Packages: 

    • The Pharmacy Bulk Package is to be used only in a suitable work area such as a laminar air flow hood (or an equivalent clean air compounding area).
    • For compounding only. Do not use for direct infusion.
    • Do not use/penetrate blocked port.
    • Attach suitable transfer device or compounding set. Refer to complete directions accompanying device.
    • Hang container on suitable fixture.
    • Once container closure has been penetrated, withdrawal of contents should be completed within 4 hours. Discard any unused portion.

    Important Admixing Instructions

    • The contents are intended for use in a pharmacy admixture program and are restricted to the preparation of admixtures for intravenous infusion.
    • Additives may be incompatible with the fluid withdrawn from this container. Consult with pharmacist.
    • When compounding admixtures, use aseptic technique, mix thoroughly and discard unused portion.
    • Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration (See Warnings and Precautions, General).
  • HOW SUPPLIED

    Potassium Chloride for Injection Concentrate USP 500 mEq/250 mL (2 mEq/mL) is supplied sterile and nonpyrogenic in 250 mL Excel® container with clear overwrap, Pharmacy Bulk Packages, packaged 24 per case.

    NDC REF Size
     Potassium Chloride for Injection Concentrate USP
     0264-1944-20 P9402 250 mL

    Exposure of pharmaceutical products to heat should be minimized. Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). Avoid excessive heat (40°C/104°F). Protect from freezing. Excursions permitted 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.]

  • SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION

    Revised: November 2022

    EXCEL is a registered trademark of B. Braun Medical Inc.

    B. Braun Medical Inc.
    Bethlehem, PA 18018-3524 USA
    1-800-227-2862

    Prepared in USA. API from Germany.

  • PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 250 mL Excel® Container Label

    Fatal If Given By Direct Infusion

    Potassium Chloride for
    Injection Concentrate USP
    500 mEq/250 mL (2 mEq/mL)

    WARNING: Pharmacy Bulk Package
    Not for Direct Infusion
    Concentrated solution: MUST BE DILUTED
    For preparation of intravenous admixtures only.

    Y94-003-477 LD-709-2

    NDC 0264-1944-20

    250 mL

    Each 100 mL contains: Potassium Chloride USP 14.9 g; Water for Injection USP qs;
    4000 mOsmol/liter; Electrolytes (mEq/mL): Potassium 2; Chloride 2

    Pharmacy Bulk Package. Sterile, nonpyrogenic. No antimicrobial or bacteriostatic
    agent has been added. Contains no more than 25 mcg/L of aluminum.

    Store at 20°-25°C. [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.]
    Avoid excessive heat (40°C/104°F). Protect from freezing.

    Dosage and Directions for Use: See Prescribing Information.
    Do not remove overwrap until ready for use.
    Withdraw contents within 4 hours of initial puncture. Use aseptic technique.

    Not made with natural rubber latex, PVC or DEHP.

    Affix accompanying label for date and time of expiry

              Expiration date: __ / __ / ____

              Expiration time: ___________ AM/PM

              Discard ___ hours after initial entry

               Y37-002-586
               LD-736-2

    REF P9402

    Rx only

    B. Braun Medical Inc.
    Bethlehem, PA 18018-3524 USA
    1-800-227-2862

    Y94-003-476 LD-708-2

    EXP

    LOT

    Container Label

    Container Label

  • PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 250 mL AUXILLARY LABEL

    Fatal if Given By Direct Infusion

    Potassium Chloride for
    Injection Concentrate USP

    500 mEq/250 mL (2 mEq/mL)

    WARNING: PHARMACY BULK PACKAGE
    NOT FOR DIRECT INFUSION

    Y37-002-584 LD-747-2

    Auxiliary Label

    Auxiliary Label

  • INGREDIENTS AND APPEARANCE
    POTASSIUM CHLORIDE 
    potassium chloride injection, solution, concentrate
    Product Information
    Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGItem Code (Source)NDC:0264-1944
    Route of AdministrationPARENTERAL
    Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
    Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
    POTASSIUM CHLORIDE (UNII: 660YQ98I10) (POTASSIUM CATION - UNII:295O53K152, CHLORIDE ION - UNII:Q32ZN48698) POTASSIUM CHLORIDE14.9 g  in 100 mL
    Inactive Ingredients
    Ingredient NameStrength
    WATER (UNII: 059QF0KO0R)  
    Packaging
    #Item CodePackage DescriptionMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    1NDC:0264-1944-2024 in 1 CASE05/02/2022
    1250 mL in 1 CONTAINER; Type 0: Not a Combination Product
    Marketing Information
    Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    ANDAANDA08587005/02/2022
    Labeler - B. Braun Medical Inc. (002397347)