Under what circumstances should potassium supplements be used while on Losartan?

Potassium supplements should only be used under medical supervision when a patient is taking Losartan. Losartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) that can lead to an increase in potassium levels in the body due to its effects on the kidneys, which help regulate potassium excretion. Since elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia) can lead to serious cardiac complications, it's crucial to monitor potassium levels closely when on this medication.

Medical supervision ensures that any necessary blood tests and evaluations can be performed to safely manage potassium levels and prevent complications. Without such oversight, a patient could inadvertently take excessive potassium and increase their risk of potentially life-threatening conditions. Therefore, it's imperative that potassium supplementation be approached cautiously and only under the guidance of a healthcare provider.