ACE inhibitors (lisinopril, enalapril, ramipril) reduce potassium excretion. Adding potassium supplements can cause life-threatening hyperkalemia (high potassium), leading to fatal cardiac arrhythmias. Symptoms include muscle weakness, paralysis, heart palpitations.
Recommendation
Do NOT supplement potassium while on ACE inhibitors without doctor approval and monitoring.
Timing
Monitor potassium levels regularly if combining
Sources
— New England Journal of Medicine
— FDA ACE Inhibitor Labels
— PMID: 16007097
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take ace inhibitors and potassium together?
Risk of dangerous hyperkalemia. Do NOT supplement potassium while on ACE inhibitors without doctor approval and monitoring.
How should I time ace inhibitors and potassium?
Monitor potassium levels regularly if combining
Is this interaction dangerous?
This interaction is rated “Danger” by Formulate. ACE inhibitors (lisinopril, enalapril, ramipril) reduce potassium excretion. Adding potassium supplements can cause life-threatening hyperkalemia (high potassium), leading to fatal cardiac arrhythmias. Symptoms include muscle weakness, paralysis, heart palpitations.
The free checker lets you add any combination of supplements and medications at once. The free web app goes further — every stack change surfaces interaction alerts automatically.