QuickView for Potassium (compound)

Summary
General Info

PubChem

PubChem Compound 5462222

Name:	Potassium
PubChem Compound ID:	5462222
Description:	An element that is in the alkali group of metals. It has an atomic symbol K, atomic number 19, and atomic weight 39.10. It is the chief cation in the intracellular fluid of muscle and other cells. Potassium ion is a strong electrolyte and it plays a significant role in the regulation of fluid volume and maintenance of the water-electrolyte balance.
Molecular formula:	K
Molecular weight:	39.0983 g/mol
Synonyms:	19K; EINECS 231-119-8; 7440-09-7; Potassium Ion; HSDB 698; Kalium; Potassium [UN2257] [Dangerous when wet]; UN2257; Potassium, metal; 31079-13-7. show more » 19K; EINECS 231-119-8; 7440-09-7; Potassium Ion; HSDB 698; Kalium; Potassium [UN2257] [Dangerous when wet]; UN2257; Potassium, metal; 31079-13-7; POTASSIUM; CHEBI:26216; Potassium, (liquid alloy) show less «

DrugBank

Identification

Name:	Potassium
Name (isomeric):	DB01345
Drug Type:	small molecule
Description:	An element that is in the alkali group of metals. It has an atomic symbol K, atomic number 19, and atomic weight 39.10. It is the chief cation in the intracellular fluid of muscle and other cells. Potassium ion is a strong electrolyte and it plays a significant role in the regulation of fluid volume and maintenance of the water-electrolyte balance.

Pharmacology

Mechanism of Action:	Potassium is the major cation (positive ion) inside animal cells, while sodium is the major cation outside animal cells. The concentration differences of these charged particles causes a difference in electric potential between the inside and outside of cells, known as the membrane potential. The balance between potassium and sodium is maintained b... show more » Potassium is the major cation (positive ion) inside animal cells, while sodium is the major cation outside animal cells. The concentration differences of these charged particles causes a difference in electric potential between the inside and outside of cells, known as the membrane potential. The balance between potassium and sodium is maintained by ion pumps in the cell membrane. The cell membrane potential created by potassium and sodium ions allows the cell generate an action potential—a "spike" of electrical discharge. The ability of cells to produce electrical discharge is critical for body functions such as neurotransmission, muscle contraction, and heart function. Potassium is also an essential mineral needed to regulate water balance, blood pressure and levels of acidity. show less «

Mechanism of Action:

Potassium is the major cation (positive ion) inside animal cells, while sodium is the major cation outside animal cells. The concentration differences of these charged particles causes a difference in electric potential between the inside and outside of cells, known as the membrane potential. The balance between potassium and sodium is maintained b...
show more »

Interactions

Drug interaction:

Benazepril	Increased risk of hyperkalemia
Lithium	The urine alkalizer decreases the effect of lithium
Tasosartan	Increased risk of hyperkalemia
Ramipril	Increased risk of hyperkalemia
Amiloride	Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Targets

Sodium/potassium-transporting ATPase alpha-1 chain