Potassium in the Human Body

TBD

Abundance:

  • Potassium is the third most abundant mineral in the human body.

  • Total body content: about 120–150 grams in an average adult.

  • 98% of potassium is found inside cells (intracellular fluid), especially in:

    • Muscle cells (~80%)

    • Red blood cells and liver

  • Only 2% is in the extracellular fluid, but this small amount is crucial for physiological functions and is tightly regulated.

Method of Administration

  • Primary Route: Intravenous (IV) infusion
    This method provides high systemic absorption and rapid onset of action, allowing the compound to act quickly at the cellular level.

  • Alternative Route: Oral administration
    (Less effective compared to IV delivery.)

Importance of Potassium:

1. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance:

  • Potassium is a key electrolyte that helps maintain:

    • Osmotic balance between cells and their environment

    • Cell hydration

    • Blood pressure regulation

2. Nerve Signal Transmission:

  • Essential for nerve impulse conduction.

  • Works with sodium in generating action potentials, which are necessary for:

    • Brain activity

    • Muscle movement

    • Reflexes

3. Muscle Function:

  • Crucial for muscle contraction, including:

    • Skeletal muscles (movement)

    • Smooth muscles (digestive tract, blood vessels)

    • Cardiac muscle (heart rhythm)

  • Potassium deficiency (hypokalemia) can lead to muscle weakness, cramps, or arrhythmias.

4. Heart Health:

  • Maintains normal heartbeat and rhythm.

  • Helps prevent high blood pressure and lowers the risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease.

5. Acid–Base Balance:

  • Participates in regulating the body's pH by exchanging with hydrogen ions across cell membranes.