Potassium citrate
Chemical compound
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Through Potassium, Salt (chemistry) and Hygroscopy
As a food additive, potassium citrate is used to regulate acidity, and is known as E number E332. Medicinally, it may be used to control kidney stones derived from uric acid or cystine.
In 2020, it was the 297th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than 1 million prescriptions.
Synthesis
Potassium citrate can be synthesized by the neutralization of citric acid which is achieved by the addition of potassium bicarbonate, potassium carbonate or potassium hydroxide to it. The solution can then be filtered and the solvent can be evaporated till granulation.
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Uses
Potassium citrate is rapidly absorbed when given by mouth, and is excreted in the urine. Since it is an alkaline salt, it is effective in reducing the pain and frequency of urination when these are caused by highly acidic urine. It is used for this purpose in dogs and cats, but is chiefly employed as a non-irritating diuretic.
Potassium citrate is an effective way to treat/manage arrhythmia, if the patient is hypokalemic.
It is widely used to treat urinary calculi (kidney stones) and bladder stones, and is often used by patients with cystinuria. A systematic review showed a significant reduction in the incidence of kidney stone formation RR 0.26, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.68.
It is also used as an alkalizing agent in the treatment of mild urinary tract infections, such as cystitis.
It is also used in many soft drinks as a buffering agent.
Frequently used in an aqueous solution with other potassium salts, it is a wet chemical fire suppressant that is particularly useful against kitchen fires. Its alkaline pH encourages saponification to insulate the fuel from oxidizing air, and the endothermic dehydration reaction absorbs heat energy to reduce temperatures.
Administration
Potassium citrate liquid is usually administered by mouth in a diluted aqueous solution, because of its somewhat caustic effect on the stomach lining, and the potential for other mild health hazards. Pill tablets also exist in normal, and extended-release formulations.