Bioavailability of potassium from controlled-release tablets with and without water loading.

The relative availability of potassium from a controlled-release multiple-units tablet (Kalinorm) and a single-unit tablet (Slow-K) were compared in 13 volunteers on a low potassium diet (less than 30 mmol), by observing changes in urinary potassium excretion after administration of a single dose of 32 mmol potassium, either with or without water loading. Irrespective of procedure, the two products had the same extent of availability. The use of water loading, and special precautions about the level of dietary potassium and its composition when studying urinary potassium excretion, are discussed. It is suggested that water loading should be avoided when investigating the rate of potassium excretion.