Urocit-K

Magnesium Citrate (375mg) + Potassium Citrate (1100mg)
Price: ₹250 - ₹350 for 30 tablets
Mfr: Jagsonpal Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | Form: Tablets

📋 Clinical Overview

A fixed-dose combination of essential electrolyte salts, Magnesium Citrate and Potassium Citrate, primarily used for the prevention and treatment of hypomagnesemia and hypokalemia, and as an alkalinizing agent in conditions like renal tubular acidosis and uric acid/calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis. It replenishes intracellular magnesium and potassium ions while increasing urinary pH and citrate excretion.

💊 Dosage & Administration

Adult: 1-2 tablets twice or thrice daily, or as directed by the physician. Typical dose for stone prophylaxis: 1 tablet TID with meals. For hypokalemia/hypomagnesemia: Dose titrated based on serum levels.

Note: Take with or immediately after a meal with a full glass of water (200-250 mL). Do NOT crush, chew, or suck the tablet. Swallow whole to avoid local irritation of mouth, esophagus, and stomach. Maintain adequate fluid intake (2.5-3 L/day) unless contraindicated.

⚠️ Contraindications

  • Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m² or anuria)
  • Hyperkalemia (serum K+ >5.0 mEq/L)
  • Hypermagnesemia
  • Addison's disease
  • Active peptic ulcer disease
  • Known hypersensitivity to any component

🔬 Mechanism of Action

The combination works via two primary mechanisms: 1) Replenishment of intracellular cations (Mg2+ and K+), and 2) Systemic and urinary alkalinization. After absorption, citrate is metabolized to bicarbonate, raising blood and urinary pH. This increased pH promotes the dissociation of citric acid into citrate ions, which chelate calcium in the urine, inhibiting the crystallization of calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate. Alkaline urine also increases the solubility of uric acid. Magnesium directly inhibits calcium oxalate crystal growth and aggregation in urine.

🤕 Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Abdominal discomfort or pain
  • Diarrhea (especially with magnesium component)
  • Mild gastrointestinal irritation

🤰 Special Populations

Pregnancy: Category C (US FDA). Use only if clearly needed. Magnesium and potassium are essential nutrients, but high-dose supplementation requires monitoring. Benefits may outweigh risks in treating pregnancy-related hypomagnesemia or for stone prophylaxis in susceptible women.

Driving: Unlikely to affect ability. However, be cautious if experiencing side effects like dizziness, lethargy, or muscle weakness.

🔄 Drug Interactions

Potassium-Sparing Diuretics (Spironolactone, Amiloride)Additive risk of severe hyperkalemiaMajor
ACE Inhibitors (Ramipril, Enalapril) / ARBs (Losartan, Telmisartan)Increased risk of hyperkalemiaMajor
NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Diclofenac)May reduce renal function, increasing risk of hyperkalemiaModerate
DigoxinHypomagnesemia and hypokalemia potentiate digoxin toxicity. This combination corrects that, but rapid over-correction can alter digoxin effect.Moderate
Quinolone Antibiotics (Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin), Tetracyclines, Bisphosphonates (Alendronate)Magnesium can form insoluble complexes, drastically reducing absorption of these drugs. Separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.Major
Anticholinergics / OpioidsMay increase risk of GI mucosal injury by delaying tablet transit.Moderate

🔁 Alternatives to Urocit-K

Same composition (Magnesium Citrate (375mg) + Potassium Citrate (1100mg)), different brands:

Potcitra-M Alkacit-M Magsol-K