Merck, 60142-500ML-F, Potassium chloride solution

Potassium is an intracellular cation with just 2% of total body K⁺ inhabiting the extracellular fluid. The distribution of K⁺ between the intracellular and extracellular space is analyzed by the action of several transport pathways like Na⁺-K⁺-ATPase, the Na⁺-K⁺-2Cl-cotransporter NKCC1, the four KCCs, and a plethora of K⁺ channels. Also, skeletal muscle comprises almost 75% of total body potassium and elicits considerable influence on extracellular K⁺. Potassium chloride is consumed orally to prevent or correct potassium depletion caused by diuretic use or other conditions. It is used as a food supplement and salt substitute.