Potassium (K) in Blood
What Affects the Test
Reasons you may not be able to have the test or why the results may not be helpful include:
- Destruction of the red blood cells in the blood sample, which can happen when blood is taken or when it is being processed in the lab. When red blood cells are broken up, they release large amounts of potassium and can cause false high values.
- Taking potassium supplements.
- Taking medicines, such as Reference antibiotics Opens New Window that contain potassium (such as a type of penicillin g), Reference nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) Opens New Window, heparin, Reference insulin Opens New Window, glucose, Reference corticosteroids Opens New Window, diuretics, medicines used to treat high blood pressure and heart disease, and natural licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra).
- The overuse of laxatives.
- Severe vomiting.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference September 4, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Avery L. Seifert, MD - Urology |
|
© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
