What Makes the Potassium Level Increase?
Cause | Disorders | Medications or Other Factors |
|---|---|---|
Decreased excretion in urine | AliskirenAliskiren Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors Angiotensin receptor blockers Cyclosporine (used to prevent rejection of organ transplants)Cyclosporine (used to prevent rejection of organ transplants) Diuretics that help the kidneys conserve potassium, such as eplerenone, spironolactone, and triamtereneDiuretics that help the kidneys conserve potassium, such as eplerenone, spironolactone, and triamterene Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs Tacrolimus (used to prevent rejection of organ transplants)Tacrolimus (used to prevent rejection of organ transplants) Trimethoprim (an antibiotic)Trimethoprim (an antibiotic) | |
Release of potassium from cells | Burns, if severe Crush injuries Diabetes mellitus (especially diabetic ketoacidosis) Muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis) | Beta-blockers Cancer chemotherapy Exercise if strenuous and prolonged |
Increased consumption | — | A diet containing potassium-rich foods (such as beans, dark leafy greens, potatoes, fish, and bananas) Intravenous treatments that contain potassium, such as total parenteral nutrition and blood transfusions Potassium supplements |