POTASSIUM CITRATE

What is Urocit-K?

Urocit-K is used as an aid to prevent kidney stone formation by increasing urinary pH. Urocit-K requires a prescription from your veterinarian.

For:

Cats and Dogs

Benefits:

• Decreases the chance of kidney stone formation
• Easy to administer tablets

How it Works:

Urocit-K makes your pet's urine less acidic which helps reduce the formation of kidney stones that would normally occur as a result of high levels of calcium or uric acid in the urine. Be sure that your pet swallows the tablets whole rather than chews it. Any other specific direction should be given to you by your veterinarian.

Cautions:

You should avoid giving your pet any supplements that contain potassium while using Urocit-K. There are possible side effects, so address any concerns you may have with your veterinarian.

Brand Name:

Urocit-K (Mission Pharmacal), Nutrived (Vedco)

Generic Name:

Potassium citrate

What is Urocit-K:

Urocit-K makes the urine less acidic which helps to reduce the formation of kidney stones that would normally occur as a result of high levels of calcium or uric acid in the urine. Urocit-K may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this guide.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Urocit-K to my pet:

Tell your veterinarian if your pet is being given a potassium-sparing diuretic, such as Spironolactone or if the pet is being given a potassium supplement. Tell your veterinarian if your pet has kidney disease, diabetes, or is dehydrated. Tell your veterinarian if your pet has adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease), or serious illness or infection, stomach ulcer, intestinal obstruction or urinary tract infection. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or lactating.

What is the most important information I should know about Urocit-K:

Urocit-K is a prescription medication FDA approved for veterinary use in dogs and cats. Urocit-K is available as 5 MEQ (540mg) and 10 MEQ (1080mg) controlled release tablets. The usual dose for dogs and cats depends on blood test values and the pet's response to therapy. Urocit-K tablets should be swallowed whole. The tablets should not be crushed or the pet allowed to chew the tablets. Keep water available for the pet to drink.

How should this medication be given:

Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Allow pet to drink plenty of water. Urocit-K tablets should be swallowed whole. Do not crush or allow the pet to chew the tablet. It is recommended to take Urocit-K with food to reduce stomach upset. Urocit-K tablet is made up of an outer shell that contains the medication. The medication is absorbed by the body but the outer shell is passed out of the body in the stool. Do not be alarmed if you see this outer shell in the pet's stool. Your veterinarian may want to perform blood tests during treatment to monitor progress and side effects. Store Urocit-K at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication away from children and pets.

What happens if I miss giving a dose:

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not give a double dose of the medication.

What should I avoid while giving Urocit-K to my pet:

You should avoid giving your pet any supplements that contain potassium.

What are the possible side effects of Urocit-K:

If any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving Urocit-K and seek emergency veterinary medical attention; an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips; tongue or face; hives), abdominal pain, black bloody or tarry stools, blood in vomit or muscle weakness or irregular heartbeats. Other less serious side effects may occur. Continue giving Urocit-K and talk to your veterinarian if your pet has slight nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea or loose stools. Other side effects may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to the animal.

What other drugs will affect Urocit-K:

Tell your veterinarian if your pet is being given a potassium supplement, a potassium-sparing diuretic such as Spironolactone, an ACE inhibitor such as enalapril or lisinopril, or digoxin. Drugs other than those listed may also interact with Urocit-K. Talk to your veterinarian before giving your pet any prescription or over the counter medicines including vitamins, minerals and herbal products.