{"id":4101,"date":"2021-09-03T08:00:00","date_gmt":"2021-09-03T01:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/?p=4101"},"modified":"2026-08-30T05:05:41","modified_gmt":"2026-08-29T22:05:41","slug":"citrate-de-potassium-calcul-renal","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/fr\/2021\/09\/03\/potassium-citrate-kidney-stone\/","title":{"rendered":"Citrate de potassium contre les calculs r\u00e9naux\u00a0: ce qu\u2019il peut et ne peut pas faire"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns coblocks-author-columns has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-52275889 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#8C8C971A;padding-top:2.5rem;padding-right:2.5rem;padding-bottom:2.5rem;padding-left:2.5rem\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-rounded\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" data-attachment-id=\"7037\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/fr\/new-photo-2024\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/New-Photo-2024.png?fit=800%2C800&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"800,800\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"Dr. Soarawee Weerasopone \u2014 Board-Certified Urologist in Bangkok, Thailand\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Dr. Soarawee Weerasopone \u2014 Board-Certified Urologist in Bangkok, Thailand&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/New-Photo-2024.png?fit=800%2C800&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/New-Photo-2024.png?resize=800%2C800&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best Urologist working in Chonburi and Cambodia\" class=\"wp-image-7037\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/New-Photo-2024.png?w=800&amp;ssl=1 800w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/New-Photo-2024.png?resize=300%2C300&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/New-Photo-2024.png?resize=150%2C150&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/New-Photo-2024.png?resize=768%2C768&amp;ssl=1 768w, 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2.578-2.016 5.025-5.325 5.025h-3.919V7.416zm1.444 1.303v7.444h2.297c3.272 0 4.022-2.484 4.022-3.722 0-2.016-1.284-3.722-4.097-3.722h-2.222z\"\/>\n    <\/svg>\n  <\/a>\n  \n  <a href=\"https:\/\/scholar.google.com\/citations?user=lTgsRMUAAAAJ&#038;hl=en\" \n     target=\"_blank\" \n     rel=\"noopener\"\n     title=\"Google Scholar\"\n     aria-label=\"View Google Scholar Profile\"\n     style=\"text-decoration: none; color: #4285F4; transition: transform 0.2s; display: inline-block;\"\n     onmouseover=\"this.style.transform='scale(1.15)'\"\n     onmouseout=\"this.style.transform='scale(1)'\">\n    <svg width=\"28\" height=\"28\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n      <path d=\"M5.242 13.769L0.5 9.5 12 1l11.5 8.5-4.742 4.269C17.548 11.249 14.978 9.5 12 9.5c-2.977 0-5.548 1.748-6.758 4.269zM12 10a7 7 0 1 0 0 14 7 7 0 0 0 0-14z\"\/>\n    <\/svg>\n  <\/a>\n  \n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-drop-cap wp-block-paragraph\">One of the questions I am asked most often in the stone clinic is whether potassium citrate can treat a kidney stone, or prevent another one after successful stone surgery. The honest answer is this: <strong>most kidney stones cannot be dissolved or removed by medication alone \u2014 citrate&#8217;s main role is in reducing the recurrence rate.<\/strong> There is one important exception, and this article explains both.<\/p>\n\n\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\r\n{\r\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\r\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\r\n  \"mainEntity\": [\r\n    {\r\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n      \"name\": \"Can potassium citrate dissolve kidney stones?\",\r\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n        \"text\": \"Potassium citrate can dissolve kidney stones only if they are uric acid stones. Uric acid stones form in acidic urine, and potassium citrate alkalinizes the urine to a therapeutic pH of 6.5\u20137.0, which can dissolve them. However, most other types of kidney stones cannot be dissolved by medication alone. Approximately 20.9% of kidney stone patients in Thailand have uric acid stones, so about 1 in 5 patients may benefit from oral citrate dissolving therapy.\"\r\n      }\r\n    },\r\n    {\r\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n      \"name\": \"What are the two main protective effects of potassium citrate against kidney stones?\",\r\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n        \"text\": \"First, potassium citrate alkalinizes urine, which can dissolve uric acid stones when urine pH is maintained at 6.5\u20137.0. Second, citrate acts as a kidney stone inhibitor by binding to calcium ions in the urine and preventing crystallization, which helps reduce the formation and recurrence of calcium-containing stones, the most common type accounting for up to 80% of all kidney stones.\"\r\n      }\r\n    },\r\n    {\r\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n      \"name\": \"Does potassium citrate prevent kidney stone recurrence?\",\r\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n        \"text\": \"Yes. A large systematic review published in 2015 confirmed that citrate therapy significantly prevents stone growth and reduces kidney stone recurrence rates, particularly for calcium-containing stones. It is often recommended after successful stone surgery as a preventive measure.\"\r\n      }\r\n    },\r\n    {\r\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n      \"name\": \"What are the side effects of potassium citrate therapy?\",\r\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n        \"text\": \"Common side effects of potassium citrate include gastrointestinal complaints such as stomach upset, nausea, bloating, and diarrhea. These side effects, combined with the need to take the medication three times daily and regularly monitor urine pH, often lead patients to discontinue the therapy.\"\r\n      }\r\n    },\r\n    {\r\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n      \"name\": \"Is potassium citrate guaranteed to prevent kidney stones from coming back?\",\r\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n        \"text\": \"No. Even with strict compliance to potassium citrate therapy and regular urine pH monitoring, there is no 100% guarantee against kidney stone recurrence. Kidney stone formation is multifactorial, and citrate therapy is just one component of a comprehensive prevention strategy.\"\r\n      }\r\n    },\r\n    {\r\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n      \"name\": \"Should I take potassium citrate for my kidney stone without consulting a doctor?\",\r\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n        \"text\": \"No. While potassium citrate is available over the counter, whether it is appropriate for your specific type of kidney stone depends on the stone composition and your individual condition. You should consult a urologist to determine if citrate therapy is the right choice for you.\"\r\n      }\r\n    }\r\n  ]\r\n}\r\n<\/script>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"489\" data-attachment-id=\"4112\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/fr\/2021\/09\/03\/potassium-citrate-kidney-stone\/pepper-powder\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Citrate-powder.jpg?fit=1200%2C734&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1200,734\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;11&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;NIKON D7100&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;pepper powder on wood spoon&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;1438355841&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;105&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;100&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0.01&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;pepper powder&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;1&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"Potassium citrate powder\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Potassium citrate powder&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Citrate-powder.jpg?fit=800%2C489&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Citrate-powder.jpg?resize=800%2C489&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Potassium citrate powder, used as oral therapy for kidney stone prevention\" class=\"wp-image-4112\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Citrate-powder.jpg?resize=1024%2C626&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Citrate-powder.jpg?resize=300%2C184&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Citrate-powder.jpg?resize=768%2C470&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Citrate-powder.jpg?resize=18%2C12&amp;ssl=1 18w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Citrate-powder.jpg?w=1200&amp;ssl=1 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Potassium citrate powder \u2014 oral therapy with a real but specific role in stone management.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The two protective effects of <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/26439475\/\">potassium citrate<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>It alkalinizes the urine.<\/strong> The uric acid stone is the only type that thrives in acidic urine, so holding the urine pH at 6.5\u20137.0 with citrate therapy can genuinely dissolve it. Thai data show that around 20.9% of stone patients have uric acid stones \u2014 roughly 1 in 5 \u2014 and it is this group that may be treated with oral citrate alone.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>It inhibits calcium stone formation.<\/strong> Calcium stones account for up to 80% of all kidney stones. Citrate binds calcium ions in the urine and prevents them crystallising. A large systematic review in 2015 confirmed that citrate therapy significantly limits stone growth and reduces the recurrence rate \u2014 but note that this is prevention, not dissolution.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"484\" data-attachment-id=\"4116\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/fr\/2021\/09\/03\/potassium-citrate-kidney-stone\/ph-scale-vector-indicator-chart-diagram-acidic-alkaline-measure\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/pH.jpg?fit=1200%2C727&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1200,727\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;pH scale vector indicator chart diagram acidic alkaline measure isolated on white background illustration. Infographic acid-base balance 10 eps&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;1624297145&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;pH scale vector indicator chart diagram acidic alkaline measure&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;1&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"Potassium citrate therapy makes urine alkalinized which can treat uric acid stone\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Potassium citrate therapy makes urine alkalinized which can treat uric acid stone &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/pH.jpg?fit=800%2C484&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/pH.jpg?resize=800%2C484&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Urine pH test strip used to monitor alkalinization during citrate therapy\" class=\"wp-image-4116\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/pH.jpg?resize=1024%2C620&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/pH.jpg?resize=300%2C182&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/pH.jpg?resize=768%2C465&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/pH.jpg?resize=18%2C12&amp;ssl=1 18w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/pH.jpg?w=1200&amp;ssl=1 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Citrate therapy alkalinizes the urine, which is what allows uric acid stones to dissolve.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Note the upper end of that pH range. The target is a window rather than a direction of travel: pushing the urine <em>too<\/em> alkaline creates favourable conditions for a different kind of stone to form instead. That is the practical reason the pH is monitored rather than simply pushed up, and the reason a dose is adjusted rather than increased until symptoms settle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The part of the name that matters: potassium<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Everything above is about the citrate. The <strong>potassium<\/strong> is the half that determines whether this medicine is safe for you, and it is the reason it is a prescription decision rather than a shopping one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Potassium citrate raises the potassium level in the blood. In a person with normal kidneys and no interacting medication, the kidneys simply excrete the excess and nothing happens. But if the kidneys are not working well, or if you take a medicine that already holds potassium in, the level can climb \u2014 and a high blood potassium disturbs the heart&#8217;s rhythm. It is one of the few side effects in urology that can be dangerous before it is uncomfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Tell your doctor before starting citrate therapy if any of these apply to you:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Reduced kidney function<\/strong> of any degree, or a kidney transplant. This matters especially in stone formers, some of whom have quietly lost kidney function over the years.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Blood pressure or heart medication<\/strong> \u2014 several of the common classes raise potassium in their own right, and the combination is where problems occur. Bring the actual boxes or a photograph of them rather than trying to remember names.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Water tablets<\/strong>, since some lower potassium and others raise it, and the difference is not obvious from the outside.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Regular anti-inflammatory painkillers<\/strong>, potassium supplements, or salt substitutes \u2014 the low-sodium salts sold as a healthier alternative are usually potassium-based, which people rarely think to mention.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>A stomach ulcer, or difficulty swallowing tablets<\/strong>, since the tablet forms can irritate the gut lining.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">None of these necessarily rule the treatment out. What they do is change whether a blood test is needed first, how the dose is set, and how often things are checked. <strong>A blood test for potassium and kidney function before starting, and again once you are established on it, is a normal part of doing this properly<\/strong> \u2014 if nobody has mentioned one, it is a reasonable thing to ask about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Stop the medication and be seen the same day \u2014 in Thailand you can call 1669 \u2014 if you develop:<\/strong> muscle weakness, a feeling of heaviness in the limbs, tingling or numbness, palpitations or an irregular heartbeat, unusual confusion, or feeling faint. These can be signs of a high potassium level. The same applies to severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or black or bloody stools, which suggest the medication has irritated the gut rather than simply upset it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The drawbacks<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Gastrointestinal side effects<\/strong> \u2014 stomach upset, nausea, bloating and diarrhoea are common. Taking it with meals and plenty of water helps.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>It demands compliance<\/strong> \u2014 optimal therapy means three doses a day, every day, alongside regular self-monitoring of urine pH. This is where most patients struggle.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>No guarantee<\/strong> \u2014 stone formation is multifactorial, so citrate reduces the odds of recurrence rather than removing them.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" data-attachment-id=\"4114\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/fr\/2021\/09\/03\/potassium-citrate-kidney-stone\/young-brunette-in-pink-sweater-isolated-on-purple-background-suffering-stomach-ache-with-painful-grimace-feeling-sudden-period-cramps-gynecology-concept\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Stomach-upset.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1200,800\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;6.3&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;\\&quot;Anastasiya Kargapolova \\n\\&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;Canon EOS 5D Mark III&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;Young brunette in pink sweater isolated on purple background suffering stomach ache with painful grimace, feeling sudden period cramps, gynecology concept&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;1617831445&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;50&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;100&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0.008&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;Young brunette in pink sweater isolated on purple background suffering stomach ache with painful grimace, feeling sudden period cramps, gynecology concept&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;1&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"Stomach upset is usually complaint during citrate therapy\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Stomach upset is usually complaint during citrate therapy&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Stomach-upset.jpg?fit=800%2C534&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Stomach-upset.jpg?resize=800%2C534&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"A man with abdominal discomfort, a common side effect of potassium citrate therapy\" class=\"wp-image-4114\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Stomach-upset.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Stomach-upset.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Stomach-upset.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Stomach-upset.jpg?resize=18%2C12&amp;ssl=1 18w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Stomach-upset.jpg?w=1200&amp;ssl=1 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Stomach upset is the commonest complaint during citrate therapy.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether citrate therapy is worth it depends on your stone type \u2014 ideally confirmed by stone analysis \u2014 your urine studies and your stone history, so it is a decision to make with your urologist rather than at the pharmacy counter. For stones that need removing rather than preventing, see <a href=\"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/2020\/05\/02\/eswl-soarawee-thai-urologist\/\">how shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) works<\/a>. For the wider question of why stones form at all and what else can be done about it, see <a href=\"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/2020\/11\/06\/why-kidney-stone-happens\/\">why kidney stones form<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Q1: Can potassium citrate dissolve kidney stones?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Potassium citrate can dissolve kidney stones only in a specific situation: uric acid stones. By alkalinizing the urine to a pH of 6.5-7.0, citrate therapy creates an environment where uric acid crystals dissolve over time. For the more common calcium-containing stones, which account for up to 80% of kidney stones, citrate therapy helps prevent new stone formation but cannot dissolve existing stones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Q2: How does potassium citrate prevent kidney stones?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Potassium citrate works in two ways. First, it alkalinizes urine, which specifically targets and helps dissolve uric acid stones. Second, citrate acts as a natural inhibitor of calcium stone formation by binding to calcium ions in the urine and preventing them from crystallizing into stones. A large systematic review in 2015 confirmed that citrate therapy significantly reduces stone recurrence rates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Q3: Is potassium citrate safe for everyone?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No, and this is the part most often overlooked. Potassium citrate raises the potassium level in the blood. With normal kidneys and no interacting medication the excess is simply excreted, but where kidney function is reduced, or where another medicine already holds potassium in, the level can climb \u2014 and a high blood potassium disturbs the heart&#8217;s rhythm. Tell your doctor about any reduced kidney function or kidney transplant, blood pressure and heart medications, water tablets, regular anti-inflammatory painkillers, potassium supplements, and low-sodium salt substitutes, which are usually potassium-based and rarely mentioned. A stomach ulcer or difficulty swallowing tablets also matters. None of these necessarily rule the treatment out; they change whether a blood test is needed first, how the dose is set and how often it is checked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Q4: Do I need blood tests while taking potassium citrate?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. A blood test for potassium and kidney function before starting, and again once you are established on treatment, is a normal part of prescribing this properly. If nobody has mentioned one, it is a reasonable thing to ask about. Urine pH is monitored separately, and the target is a window of 6.5-7.0 rather than a direction of travel, because pushing the urine too alkaline encourages a different kind of stone to form instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Q5: Who should take potassium citrate for kidney stones?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Potassium citrate is most beneficial for patients with uric acid kidney stones, those with low urinary citrate levels (hypocitraturia), and patients with calcium oxalate stones who have had prior stone surgery and want to reduce recurrence risk. Your urologist can determine whether citrate therapy is appropriate based on your stone type (ideally confirmed by stone analysis), urine studies, kidney function, current medications, and overall stone history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Q6: What are the side effects of potassium citrate therapy?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The common ones are gastrointestinal: stomach upset, nausea, bloating, and diarrhea. These are usually related to the dosing schedule, as optimal therapy requires taking the medication three times daily, and taking citrate with meals and adequate water can help. If side effects are severe, your doctor can adjust the formulation or dosage. The important but less common problem is a rise in blood potassium, which is why kidney function and interacting medications are checked before starting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Q7: Which symptoms mean I should stop and seek urgent help?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stop the medication and be seen the same day \u2014 in Thailand you can call 1669 \u2014 for muscle weakness, a feeling of heaviness in the limbs, tingling or numbness, palpitations or an irregular heartbeat, unusual confusion, or feeling faint. These can indicate a high potassium level, which is one of the few side effects in this field that can be dangerous before it is uncomfortable. Severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or black or bloody stools also need same-day assessment, as they suggest the medication has irritated the gut lining rather than simply upset the stomach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Q8: Can I buy potassium citrate over the counter for kidney stones?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While some citrate-containing supplements are available over the counter, self-medicating without medical guidance is not recommended, and the reason is not only that it may not work. Effective citrate therapy requires knowing your stone type (confirmed by stone analysis), monitoring urine pH regularly, and maintaining appropriate dosing \u2014 but it also requires knowing that your kidney function and current medications make the potassium safe for you, which cannot be established at a pharmacy counter. Kidney stone formation is multifactorial and requires a comprehensive evaluation by a urologist to design the most effective prevention strategy for your individual situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Q9: Can I discuss citrate therapy by video consultation?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, and it suits this well, since the decision rests on your stone analysis, previous urine and blood results and your current medication list rather than on an examination. Bangkok Hospital Headquarters offers a Telemedicine service, arranged in advance by email to the Urology department at bhquro@bdms.co.th \u2014 send any stone analysis, kidney function results and a photograph of all the medicines you take, including supplements and salt substitutes. Blood tests are arranged in person. Samitivej Sriracha is in-person only, booked through the Urology department line 088-022-1445.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you have kidney stones and would like guidance on whether potassium citrate therapy is appropriate for you, Dr. Soarawee Weerasopone offers specialist consultations at Bangkok Hospital Headquarters. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bangkokhospital.com\/en\/bangkok\/doctor\/dr-soarawee-weerasopone-2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Book a Consultation<\/a>. Appointments at Samitivej Sriracha Hospital can be arranged by calling the Urology department on <a href=\"tel:0880221445\">088-022-1445<\/a>. Questions about the cost of consultation, testing or medication should go to the hospital directly \u2014 for Bangkok Hospital, by email to <a href=\"mailto:bhquro@bdms.co.th\">bhquro@bdms.co.th<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reference<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Citrate salts for preventing and treating calcium containing kidney stones: systematic review. <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/26439475\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">PubMed 26439475<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Disclaimer:<\/strong> This content is written and reviewed by Dr. Soarawee Weerasopone, a board-certified urologist at Bangkok Hospital Headquarters. It is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Potassium citrate is a potassium salt and is not suitable for everyone; kidney function and current medications must be assessed before it is started, and it should not be self-prescribed. No medical advice, diagnosis or prescription is provided through personal messaging channels or social media. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any medical treatment. In an emergency, attend the nearest emergency department \u2014 in Thailand the emergency number is 1669.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@graph\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"MedicalWebPage\",\n      \"@id\": \"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/2021\/09\/03\/potassium-citrate-kidney-stone\/#webpage\",\n      \"url\": \"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/2021\/09\/03\/potassium-citrate-kidney-stone\/\",\n      \"name\": \"Potassium Citrate for Kidney Stones: What It Can and Cannot Do\",\n      \"description\": \"Potassium citrate dissolves uric acid stones by alkalinizing the urine, and reduces recurrence of calcium stones without dissolving them. What the evidence supports, why the potassium content makes it a prescription decision, the blood tests required, the side effects, and why stone type must be known first.\",\n      \"inLanguage\": \"en\",\n      \"datePublished\": \"2021-09-03\",\n      \"dateModified\": \"2026-08-30\",\n      \"lastReviewed\": \"2026-08-30\",\n      \"specialty\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\/Urologic\",\n      \"medicalAudience\": { \"@type\": \"MedicalAudience\", \"audienceType\": \"Patient\" },\n      \"isPartOf\": { \"@id\": \"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/#website\" },\n      \"author\": { \"@id\": \"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/#physician\" },\n      \"reviewedBy\": { \"@id\": \"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/#physician\" },\n      \"publisher\": { \"@id\": \"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/#physician\" },\n      \"about\": {\n        \"@type\": \"MedicalCondition\",\n        \"name\": \"Kidney stones\",\n        \"alternateName\": \"Nephrolithiasis\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Drug\",\n      \"@id\": \"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/2021\/09\/03\/potassium-citrate-kidney-stone\/#potassium-citrate\",\n      \"name\": \"Potassium citrate\",\n      \"description\": \"Oral citrate therapy for kidney stone disease. It alkalinizes the urine, holding pH at 6.5-7.0, which can dissolve uric acid stones \u2014 the only stone type that forms in acidic urine and about one in five stones in Thai data. It also binds calcium ions in the urine and inhibits crystallisation, which reduces recurrence of calcium stones but does not dissolve existing ones. The pH target is a window rather than a direction of travel: excessive alkalinisation favours calcium phosphate stone formation, which is why pH is monitored rather than simply driven upward.\",\n      \"administrationRoute\": \"Oral\",\n      \"dosageForm\": \"Powder or tablet, typically three doses daily\",\n      \"prescriptionStatus\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\/PrescriptionOnly\",\n      \"clinicalPharmacology\": \"Urinary alkalinization and inhibition of calcium crystallisation. It is a potassium salt and raises serum potassium.\",\n      \"adverseOutcome\": [\n        {\"@type\": \"MedicalEntity\", \"name\": \"Stomach upset and nausea\"},\n        {\"@type\": \"MedicalEntity\", \"name\": \"Bloating\"},\n        {\"@type\": \"MedicalEntity\", \"name\": \"Diarrhoea\"}\n      ],\n      \"seriousAdverseOutcome\": [\n        {\"@type\": \"MedicalEntity\", \"name\": \"Hyperkalaemia. Potassium citrate raises serum potassium; with normal renal function and no interacting medication the excess is excreted, but reduced renal function or concurrent potassium-retaining medication allows the level to climb, disturbing cardiac rhythm. Warning features requiring the drug to be stopped and same-day assessment: muscle weakness or limb heaviness, paraesthesia, palpitations or irregular heartbeat, confusion, or faintness. In Thailand the emergency number is 1669\"},\n        {\"@type\": \"MedicalEntity\", \"name\": \"Gastrointestinal mucosal irritation or ulceration with the solid dosage forms: severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or melaena or bloody stools require same-day assessment\"},\n        {\"@type\": \"MedicalEntity\", \"name\": \"Calcium phosphate stone formation from excessive urinary alkalinisation\"}\n      ],\n      \"contraindication\": {\n        \"@type\": \"MedicalContraindication\",\n        \"description\": \"Requires assessment of renal function and the full medication list before initiation. Relevant factors include impaired renal function of any degree or renal transplant, antihypertensive and cardiac drugs that raise potassium, potassium-sparing diuretics, regular non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, potassium supplements, and low-sodium salt substitutes, which are potassium-based and seldom volunteered by patients. Peptic ulceration or difficulty swallowing tablets also alters the choice of formulation. These factors do not necessarily preclude treatment but determine whether baseline testing is required, how the dose is set, and the monitoring interval.\"\n      },\n      \"warning\": \"Not a substitute for stone removal: most kidney stones cannot be dissolved by medication. Effective therapy depends on knowing the stone type, ideally from stone analysis, and on regular urine pH monitoring. Serum potassium and renal function should be checked before starting and again once established. It should be prescribed and supervised by a urologist rather than bought over the counter, because whether the potassium load is safe for an individual cannot be established at a pharmacy counter. Stone formation is multifactorial, so citrate reduces the odds of recurrence rather than removing them.\"\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n      \"@id\": \"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/2021\/09\/03\/potassium-citrate-kidney-stone\/#faq\",\n      \"isPartOf\": { \"@id\": \"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/2021\/09\/03\/potassium-citrate-kidney-stone\/#webpage\" },\n      \"mainEntity\": [\n        {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can potassium citrate dissolve kidney stones?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Only in one situation: uric acid stones. By alkalinizing the urine to a pH of 6.5-7.0, citrate therapy creates conditions in which uric acid crystals dissolve over time. For the more common calcium-containing stones, up to 80% of all stones, citrate helps prevent new stone formation but cannot dissolve existing ones.\"}},\n        {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How does potassium citrate prevent kidney stones?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"In two ways. It alkalinizes urine, which targets and helps dissolve uric acid stones; and citrate acts as a natural inhibitor of calcium stone formation by binding calcium ions in the urine and preventing them crystallising. A large 2015 systematic review confirmed that citrate therapy significantly reduces stone recurrence rates.\"}},\n        {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Is potassium citrate safe for everyone?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No, and this is the part most often overlooked. Potassium citrate raises the potassium level in the blood. With normal kidneys and no interacting medication the excess is simply excreted, but where kidney function is reduced, or another medicine already holds potassium in, the level can climb, and high blood potassium disturbs the heart's rhythm. Declare any reduced kidney function or kidney transplant, blood pressure and heart medications, water tablets, regular anti-inflammatory painkillers, potassium supplements, and low-sodium salt substitutes, which are usually potassium-based. Peptic ulcer or difficulty swallowing tablets also matters. These do not necessarily rule treatment out but change whether a blood test is needed first, how the dose is set, and the monitoring interval.\"}},\n        {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Do I need blood tests while taking potassium citrate?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes. A blood test for potassium and kidney function before starting, and again once established on treatment, is a normal part of prescribing this properly, and it is reasonable to ask about if nobody has mentioned it. Urine pH is monitored separately, and the target is a window of 6.5-7.0 rather than a direction of travel, because excessive alkalinisation encourages a different kind of stone to form instead.\"}},\n        {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Who should take potassium citrate for kidney stones?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"It is most beneficial for patients with uric acid stones, those with low urinary citrate (hypocitraturia), and patients with calcium oxalate stones who have had prior stone surgery and want to reduce recurrence risk. Suitability is judged on stone type, ideally confirmed by stone analysis, urine studies, kidney function, current medications and overall stone history.\"}},\n        {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What are the side effects of potassium citrate therapy?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"The common ones are gastrointestinal: stomach upset, nausea, bloating and diarrhoea, usually related to the three-times-daily schedule, and helped by taking it with meals and adequate water. The formulation or dose can be adjusted if they are severe. The important but less common problem is a rise in blood potassium, which is why kidney function and interacting medications are checked before starting.\"}},\n        {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Which symptoms mean I should stop and seek urgent help?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Stop the medication and be seen the same day for muscle weakness, limb heaviness, tingling or numbness, palpitations or an irregular heartbeat, unusual confusion, or faintness. These can indicate a high potassium level, one of the few side effects in this field that can be dangerous before it is uncomfortable. Severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or black or bloody stools also need same-day assessment, suggesting irritation of the gut lining rather than simple stomach upset.\"}},\n        {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I buy potassium citrate over the counter for kidney stones?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Some citrate-containing supplements are sold over the counter, but self-medicating is not recommended, and not only because it may not work. Effective therapy requires knowing the stone type from stone analysis, monitoring urine pH and correct dosing, and it also requires knowing that your kidney function and current medications make the potassium load safe for you, which cannot be established at a pharmacy counter.\"}},\n        {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I discuss citrate therapy by video consultation?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes, and it suits this well, since the decision rests on stone analysis, previous urine and blood results and the current medication list rather than on an examination. Bangkok Hospital Headquarters offers a Telemedicine service, arranged in advance by email to the Urology department at bhquro@bdms.co.th; send any stone analysis, kidney function results and a photograph of all medicines taken, including supplements and salt substitutes. Blood tests are arranged in person. Samitivej Sriracha is in-person only.\"}}\n      ]\n    }\n  ]\n}\n<\/script>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Patients often hope a tablet will make a kidney stone disappear. Dr. Soarawee Weerasopone, urologist at Bangkok Hospital, explains what potassium citrate genuinely does \u2014 dissolving one stone type, preventing another \u2014 and where its limits lie.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":185281453,"featured_media":10072,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"advanced_seo_description":"Can potassium citrate dissolve kidney stones? What citrate therapy does for uric acid and calcium stones, its side effects, and who it suits. By Dr. Soarawee Weerasopone, urologist.","jetpack_seo_html_title":"Potassium Citrate for Kidney Stones: What It Can Do | Dr. Soarawee","jetpack_seo_noindex":false,"jetpack_seo_schema_type":"","_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_wpcom_ai_launchpad_first_post":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"{title}\n\n{excerpt}\n\n{url}","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"_wpas_customize_per_network":false,"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[1],"tags":[1547,1384,1548],"class_list":["post-4101","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-kidney-stone","tag-citrate-therapy","tag-kidney-stone","tag-potassium-citrate"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_likes_enabled":false,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/pgZdrK-149","jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Oral-Meds-for-Stones.webp?fit=1200%2C630&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4101","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/185281453"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4101"}],"version-history":[{"count":22,"href":"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4101\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11821,"href":"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4101\/revisions\/11821"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10072"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4101"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4101"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drsoaraweeurology.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4101"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}