Moderate to severe hypokalemia
ICD-10 E87.6 · ICD-11 5C77

Treatment of Moderate Hypokalemia with Serum Potassium 2.5–2.9 mmol/L in Adults Aged 16 and Over

This protocol addresses adult patients aged 16 years or over who present with a serum potassium in the moderate range — 2.5 to 2.9 mmol/L. At this level, the deficit is clinically significant and requires prompt structured management.

The defining finding is a measured serum potassium of 2.5 to 2.9 mmol/L, consistent with moderate hypokalaemia. This guideline does not apply to patients under the age of 16.

Management is centred on oral potassium replacement therapy, given in a way that minimises gastrointestinal effects. The complete regimen — including specific agents, schedule, and monitoring requirements — is available in the full protocol.

Full dosing details and the step-by-step algorithm are not shown here.

The target is a rise in serum potassium above 2.9 mmol/L. Monitoring continues following initial therapy, with at least daily checks until that threshold is reached.

Instant Access to Structured Evidence-Based Regimens

References

View source ↗