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Potassium Citrate ER Coupon - Potassium Citrate ER 10meq tablet

potassium citrate ER

Generic Urocit-K
Used for Kidney Stones
Used for Kidney Stones

Potassium citrate extended-release tablets (Urocit-K) help treat and prevent kidney stones in adults. The medication makes your urine less acidic, which helps stop stones from forming. It's taken by mouth 2 or 3 times a day, depending on the dosage strength you're taking. The medication is usually taken with meals. Some people might have stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea as side effects.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
reviewer
Cydnee Ng, PharmD
Last reviewed on March 7, 2025
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Potassium citrate (Urocit-K)?

What is Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) used for?

  • Treatment and prevention of kidney stones made of calcium and uric acid

How Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) works

Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) is an alkalinizing agent. The potassium salt works by making your urine less acidic. This prevents kidney stones from forming.

Are you looking for information on potassium chloride (Klor-Con), K-Phos (potassium phosphate), or Effer-K (potassium bicarbonate) instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsUrocit-K
Drug ClassAlkalinizing agent
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) essentials

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What are the side effects of Potassium citrate (Urocit-K)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Stomach upset or discomfort
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Loose bowel movements
  • Nausea

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • High potassium levels: nausea, tingling, numbness, feeling more tired than usual, muscle weakness, abnormal or irregular heartbeat
  • Stomach damage or stomach bleeding: black, tarry, or bloody stools; bloody vomit; severe vomiting; severe stomach pain
When do Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Risk of stomach upset
Risk of vomiting
Risk of diarrhea
If a line continues to the right, you'll likely keep experiencing this side effect once it starts.

Source: DailyMed

More on Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) side effects

Pharmacy: side effects potassium citrate

3 Potassium Citrate Side Effects to Know About

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The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Incidence not known

Abdominal or stomach discomfort

diarrhea

nausea

vomiting

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:

Symptoms of overdose

Abdominal or stomach pain

confusion

difficult breathing

irregular heartbeat

nervousness

numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips

shortness of breath

weakness or heaviness of the legs

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Potassium citrate (Urocit-K)

thumbs-up

Pros

Works for the most common types of kidney stones

Dose can be adjusted based on your response to the medication

thumbs-down

Cons

Must swallow tablets whole 2 to 3 times a day

Not safe if you have kidney failure, urinary tract infections, high potassium levels, stomach ulcers, or certain stomach problems

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Potassium citrate (Urocit-K)

pharmacist

  • Swallow potassium citrate (Urocit-K) whole with plenty of water. Don't cut, crush, chew, or suck on the tablets. This can affect the way the medication works. Talk to your prescriber if you have trouble swallowing the tablet whole. Also let them know if the tablet seems to stick to your throat.

    • Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. Taking it along with a meal or bedtime snack (or within 30 minutes after eating) can help ease these side effects. Talk to your prescriber if taking the medication with food doesn't help.

      • You might see pieces of the potassium citrate tablet (Urocit-K) in your stool. This is normal and harmless.

        • Help treat and prevent kidney stones by staying hydrated. It helps dilute your urine so there's less chance of stones forming. Some drinks include water, orange juice, coffee, and green tea. But avoid soda and alcohol because they can raise your risk of forming new kidney stones.

          • Get any urine tests, blood tests, and electrocardiograms (EKGs) done on time while taking potassium citrate (Urocit-K). Urine tests help your prescriber check how well the medication is working. And blood tests and EKGs check that the medication isn't causing serious side effects.

            • Tell your prescriber if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. It isn't known whether potassium citrate (Urocit-K) can harm the baby. Your prescriber can talk to you about the risks and benefits. Usually, you'll take the medication only if it's absolutely needed.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Potassium citrate (Urocit-K)

              How long should you take potassium citrate (Urocit-K) for kidney stones?
              Talk to your prescriber about how long you might need to take potassium citrate (Urocit-K). It could depend on how often you're getting kidney stones during treatment. It also depends on your urinary citrate levels and urinary pH (how acidic your urine is). In addition, it could depend on whether you're having any side effects that bother you or are serious. Each person is different and will need to take this medication for a different amount of time.
              When is the best time to take potassium citrate (Urocit-K)?
              It's best to take potassium citrate (Urocit-K) when you have meals or, if taken at night, when you eat a bedtime snack. You can also take it within 30 minutes after this food. Taking potassium citrate (Urocit-K) with food can help prevent side effects like stomach irritation, stomach pain, and nausea.
              Can potassium citrate (Urocit-K) dissolve kidney stones?
              Yes, potassium citrate (Urocit-K) can help dissolve certain types of kidney stones. The medication works by making the urine less acidic, which helps dissolve stones. By keeping the urine less acidic, it also helps prevent new stones from forming.
              Can you take too much potassium citrate (Urocit-K)?
              Yes, it's possible to take too much potassium citrate (Urocit-K). This can cause high potassium levels in your body, which can be dangerous. Symptoms of too much potassium include weakness, tingling, numbness, nausea, and abnormal heartbeat. Only take potassium citrate (Urocit-K) as directed by your prescriber. If you think you might've taken too much, call a Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 or get medical help right away.
              Does potassium citrate (Urocit-K) cause weight gain?
              Weight gain wasn't a reported side effect of potassium citrate (Urocit-K) in studies. Talk to a healthcare professional if you notice weight gain that's concerning to you while taking this medication.
              Does potassium citrate (Urocit-K) lower blood pressure?
              A small study suggests that potassium citrate (Urocit-K) might lower blood pressure. But more research is needed to know for sure. You can check your blood pressure at home. Bring a record of your readings to your appointments to discuss with your healthcare professional.
              Is potassium citrate (Urocit-K) over the counter?
              No. You need a prescription from a healthcare professional for potassium citrate (Urocit-K) for kidney stones. It has a higher amount of potassium than over-the-counter supplements that contain potassium. It also comes in a special extended-release form.
              What is the difference between potassium citrate and potassium gluconate?
              Potassium citrate and potassium gluconate are different types of potassium salts. Potassium gluconate is available over the counter. It helps treat and prevent low potassium levels. Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) is a prescription medication that's used to treat and prevent kidney stones. Ask a healthcare professional if you have more questions about these potassium salts.
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              What are the risks and warnings for Potassium citrate (Urocit-K)?

              Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

              risk-warning

              High potassium levels

              • Risk factors: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) | Heart failure | Taking other medications that raise potassium | Using potassium-based salt substitutes

                Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) can raise the potassium levels in the body. It can be dangerous and cause heart problems if potassium levels get too high.

                Avoid this medication if you have a health condition that makes it harder for your body to get rid of potassium. These include chronic kidney disease (CKD) and heart failure. The risk for high potassium levels is also greater if you take other medications that can raise potassium levels or use potassium-based salt substitutes.

                Your prescriber will check your potassium levels with blood tests. They might also check your heart rhythm using electrocardiograms. These tests help make sure potassium citrate (Urocit-K) is safe for you to take. Tell your care team if you have symptoms of high potassium like fatigue, muscle weakness, tingling, numbness, nausea, or irregular heartbeat.

                risk-warning

                Damage to the stomach lining

                • Risk factors: Taking medications that can damage the stomach | Taking medications that slow down digestion

                  Although rare, other potassium salts have caused stomach lining damage. This can sometimes cause stomach bleeding and be life-threatening.

                  To stay safe, be aware of the risk for damage to the stomach lining. The risk might be higher if you take medications that are hard on the stomach, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It could also be higher if you're taking medications that slow digestion, like anticholinergics.

                  Stop taking potassium citrate (Urocit-K) and get medical help right away if you have severe vomiting, stomach pain, or bloody or dark stools. These could be signs of stomach bleeding or damage.

                  dosage

                  Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) dosage forms

                  The average cost for 60 tablets of 10meq of Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) is $25.00 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 71.85% off the average retail price of $88.82.
                  tablet
                  Tablet
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  5meq180 tablets$40.98$0.23
                  10meq60 tablets$25.00$0.42
                  15meq180 tablets$53.65$0.30

                  Typical dosing for Potassium citrate (Urocit-K)

                  The dosage depends on the amount of citrate in your urine and the pH of your urine (how acidic it is). This is measured with a 24-hour urinary citrate test and a urinary pH test.

                  • Mild-to-moderately low citrate levels (more than 150 mg of citrate in the urine per day): The typical starting dose is 15 mEq by mouth twice a day with meals. Another option is 10 mEq by mouth three times a day with meals.

                  • Severely low citrate levels (less than 150 mg of citrate in the urine per day): The typical starting dose is 30 mEq by mouth twice a day with meals. Another option is 20 mEq by mouth three times a day with meals.

                  Your prescriber will adjust the dose based on how well the medication works for you. Don't take more than 100 mEq per day.

                  More on Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) dosage forms

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                  interactions

                  Interactions between Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) and other drugs

                  Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Potassium citrate (Urocit-K). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                  More on Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) interactions

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                  5 Potassium Citrate Interactions to Watch Out for

                  Written by Amy B. Gragnolati, PharmD, BCPS

                  Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine.

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                  How much does Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) cost?

                  To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                  Urocit-K (brand)
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                  $25.00

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                  contraindications-icon

                  Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) contraindications

                  Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) will not be safe for you to take.
                  alternatives

                  What are alternatives to Potassium citrate (Urocit-K)?

                  There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Potassium citrate (Urocit-K). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                  Potassium citrate (Urocit-K)
                  Used for:

                  • Treatment and prevention of kidney stones made of calcium and uric acid

                  $25.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Allopurinol (Zyloprim)
                  Used for:
                  $4.80 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  images

                  Potassium citrate (Urocit-K) images

                  Yellow Oblong A94 - Potassium Citrate 10mEq Extended-Release Tablet
                  This medicine is Yellow, Oblong Tablet Imprinted With "A94".Yellow Oblong A94 - Potassium Citrate 10mEq Extended-Release Tablet
                  Yellow Oblong C105 - Potassium Citrate 10mEq Extended-Release Tablet
                  This medicine is Yellow, Oblong Tablet Imprinted With "C105".Yellow Oblong C105 - Potassium Citrate 10mEq Extended-Release Tablet
                  Yellow Oval M10 - Potassium Citrate 10mEq Extended-Release Tablet
                  This medicine is Yellow, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "M10".Yellow Oval M10 - Potassium Citrate 10mEq Extended-Release Tablet
                  Yellow Oblong Ani 291 - Potassium Citrate 10mEq Extended-Release Tablet
                  This medicine is Yellow, Oblong Tablet Imprinted With "Ani 291".Yellow Oblong Ani 291 - Potassium Citrate 10mEq Extended-Release Tablet
                  Tan Oval 537 - Potassium Citrate 10mEq Extended-Release Tablet
                  This medicine is Tan, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "537".Tan Oval 537 - Potassium Citrate 10mEq Extended-Release Tablet
                  Yellow Oblong Kc 10 - Potassium Citrate 10mEq Extended-Release Tablet
                  This medicine is Yellow, Oblong Tablet Imprinted With "Kc 10".Yellow Oblong Kc 10 - Potassium Citrate 10mEq Extended-Release Tablet
                  Tan Oval E35 - Potassium Citrate 10mEq Extended-Release Tablet
                  This medicine is Tan, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "E35".Tan Oval E35 - Potassium Citrate 10mEq Extended-Release Tablet

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                  References

                  Best studies we found

                  He, F. J., et al. (2005). Effect of short-term supplementation of potassium chloride and potassium citrate on blood pressure in hypertensives. Hypertension.

                  KC, M., et al. (2023). Uric acid nephrolithiasis. StatPearls.

                  Leslie, S. W., et al. (2024). 24-hour urine testing for nephrolithiasis: Interpretation and treatment guidelines. StatPearls.

                  View All References (2)

                  National Kidney Foundation. (n.d.). Kidney stones.

                  Rising Pharma Holdings, Inc. (2025). Potassium citrate tablet, extended release [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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