Q. My doctor recently discovered that my potassium was a little low, so he put me on potassium pills. Later, after trying several blood pressure medicines, he switched me to triamterene-hydrochlorothiazide.
The patient prescription information sheet says not to take potassium supplements with this new diuretic medication, as it can raise potassium levels. The pharmacist didn’t make too much of it, but I am really concerned as I already have fast irregular heartbeats. What should I do?
A. Your doctor must monitor your potassium at frequent intervals. When extra potassium is added to a diuretic containing triamterene (Dyazide, Maxzide), potassium overdose can occur, leading to irregular heart rhythms. In some cases this could be lethal. Even salt substitutes containing potassium chloride could cause trouble.
