Potassium Citrate & Kidney Stones

Question:
Can taking certain forms of potassium, such as potassium citrate, reduce my chances of getting kidney stones? I've read a study that says it can, but it's unclear how much I should take.

Reviewed and edited by Tod Cooperman, M.D.

Initial Posting: 10/29/2014    Last Update: 8/8/2017

Answer:
Yes, there is good evidence that potassium citrate can inhibit kidney stone formation in a large percentage of people with recurrent kidney stones. In addition, potassium phosphate can lower levels of excess calcium in urine and also reduce the risk of calcium kidney stones. 

Interestingly, it is not potassium itself which makes these treatments work but the citrate and phosphate portions of the compounds, and there are many other potential sources of citrate, such as citrus fruits. Get more information about the evidence for these compounds in reducing kidney stones, including doses used in clinical studies and how this compares to amounts found in supplements, in the Potassium Supplements Review >>

See other recent and popular questions >>

---