Potassium Cation

Warning

H302 (42.1%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

P264, P264+P265, P270, P273, P280, P301+P317, P305+P351+P338, P330, P337+P317, P391, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 19 reports by companies from 2 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Potassium is the major cation (positive ion) inside animal cells, while sodium is the major cation outside animal cells. The concentration differences of these charged particles causes a difference in electric potential between the inside and outside of cells, known as the membrane potential. The balance between potassium and sodium is maintained by ion pumps in the cell membrane. The cell membrane potential created by potassium and sodium ions allows the cell generate an action potential—a "spike" of electrical discharge. The ability of cells to produce electrical discharge is critical for body functions such as neurotransmission, muscle contraction, and heart function. Potassium is also an essential mineral needed to regulate water balance, blood pressure and levels of acidity.

295O53K152

POTASSIUM CATION

Chemical Structure [CS] - Potassium Compounds

Established Pharmacologic Class [EPC] - Potassium Salt

Established Pharmacologic Class [EPC] - Osmotic Laxative

Physiologic Effects [PE] - Increased Large Intestinal Motility