K2hpo4
Also known as: Potassium hydrogen phosphate, K2HPO4, Dibasic potassium phosphate, Dipotassium hydrogen phosphate, Dipotassium phosphate
Overview
Dipotassium phosphate (K2HPO4) is an inorganic salt that serves as a dietary supplement and pharmaceutical agent, providing both potassium and phosphate ions. While not naturally abundant in foods, it is widely utilized in clinical settings to address hypophosphatemia (low phosphate levels) and as a general nutritional supplement for individuals requiring additional potassium and phosphate. It is also explored for its potential in managing recurrent calcium oxalate kidney stones due to its ability to alter urinary chemistry. K2HPO4 is highly soluble in water, ensuring the bioavailable delivery of its constituent ions. Its primary applications revolve around electrolyte balance and supporting critical metabolic functions. The research on K2HPO4 is moderately mature, with its clinical efficacy for hypophosphatemia being well-established, though broader health benefits as a general supplement are less extensively studied. Evidence primarily stems from clinical trials and intervention studies, with a need for more systematic reviews specifically on K2HPO4's supplemental uses.
Benefits
K2HPO4 offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily stemming from its potassium and phosphate content. Its most established use is the treatment of hypophosphatemia, where oral doses ranging from 250 mg to 1500 mg two to three times daily have been clinically shown to effectively restore phosphate levels. While not specific to K2HPO4, potassium supplementation, in general, has demonstrated significant cardiovascular benefits. A meta-analysis indicated that potassium supplementation improved endothelial function, evidenced by an increase in flow-mediated dilation (FMD) by 0.74%, suggesting a positive impact on vascular health and a reduction in cardiovascular risk. This improvement in endothelial function is statistically significant and clinically meaningful. Additionally, K2HPO4 may contribute to reducing the risk of calcium oxalate kidney stones by favorably altering urinary chemistry. These benefits are particularly relevant for patients with diagnosed hypophosphatemia, those at risk of phosphate depletion, or individuals with cardiovascular risk factors linked to potassium deficiency. Phosphate correction in hypophosphatemia typically occurs over days to weeks, while improvements in endothelial function from potassium intake may be observed within weeks of consistent supplementation.
How it works
Dipotassium phosphate (K2HPO4) exerts its effects by supplying bioavailable potassium and phosphate ions to the body. Potassium ions play a crucial role in regulating vascular tone and endothelial function, primarily by modulating nitric oxide availability and promoting smooth muscle relaxation. This contributes to improved blood vessel health and cardiovascular function. Phosphate ions are fundamental for numerous physiological processes, including energy metabolism through ATP synthesis, bone mineralization, and cellular signaling pathways. K2HPO4 interacts with the cardiovascular system by supporting endothelial function, the renal system by aiding in electrolyte balance, and the skeletal system by contributing to bone health. At a molecular level, potassium influences potassium channels in vascular smooth muscle, while phosphate is critical for various cellular phosphate transporters. K2HPO4 is highly soluble and bioavailable, absorbing efficiently in the gastrointestinal tract when taken orally.
Side effects
Dipotassium phosphate (K2HPO4) is generally considered safe when used appropriately and with proper monitoring. However, careful attention to dosage is crucial to prevent electrolyte imbalances such as hyperkalemia (high potassium) or hyperphosphatemia (high phosphate). Common side effects, affecting more than 5% of users, primarily include gastrointestinal discomfort and nausea, especially when taken orally. Uncommon side effects, occurring in 1-5% of individuals, are typically related to electrolyte imbalances if the dosage is excessive. Rare but serious side effects, affecting less than 1% of users, can include cardiac arrhythmias due to severe hyperkalemia or soft tissue calcification resulting from prolonged hyperphosphatemia. K2HPO4 should be used with caution in individuals taking potassium-sparing diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or phosphate binders, as these medications can exacerbate potassium or phosphate levels. It is strictly contraindicated in individuals with pre-existing hyperkalemia, severe renal impairment, or hyperphosphatemia. Special consideration and careful dosing adjustments are necessary for patients with impaired kidney function and the elderly due to their altered electrolyte regulation.
Dosage
The optimal dosage of Dipotassium phosphate (K2HPO4) varies significantly based on the clinical indication and individual needs, requiring careful monitoring of serum potassium and phosphate levels. For the treatment of hypophosphatemia, oral doses as low as 250 mg of potassium phosphate two to three times daily have been shown to be effective. General optimal dosage ranges from 250 mg to 1500 mg, administered two to three times daily, depending on the severity of the deficiency and the specific clinical goal. The maximum safe dose is not rigidly defined, emphasizing the need for individualized dosing and close medical supervision. To enhance tolerance and absorption, it is often recommended to take divided doses with meals. Oral formulations are preferred for mild to moderate cases, while intravenous administration is reserved for severe hypophosphatemia. While no specific cofactors are required for absorption, monitoring of calcium and magnesium levels is advisable to maintain overall electrolyte balance.
FAQs
Is K2HPO4 safe for long-term supplementation?
K2HPO4 can be safe for long-term use under medical supervision, provided that serum electrolyte levels, particularly potassium and phosphate, are regularly monitored to prevent imbalances.
Can it improve cardiovascular health?
Potassium supplementation, in general, has been shown to improve endothelial function, which may reduce cardiovascular risk. However, specific high-quality evidence for K2HPO4's direct cardiovascular benefits beyond its potassium content needs further research.
How quickly does it work?
Improvements in phosphate levels for hypophosphatemia can be observed within days of consistent dosing. Benefits related to endothelial function from potassium intake may take several weeks to manifest.
Is it the same as potassium chloride?
No, K2HPO4 is not the same as potassium chloride. While both provide potassium, K2HPO4 also provides phosphate, which has distinct and critical physiological roles in energy metabolism, bone health, and cellular signaling.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36839211/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effect of potassium supplementation on endothelial function in healthy adults. It found that potassium supplementation significantly increased flow-mediated dilation (FMD) by 0.74%, indicating an improvement in endothelial function, which is relevant for cardiovascular health. The study highlights a dose-response effect, despite moderate heterogeneity among included studies.
- https://archive.hshsl.umaryland.edu/bitstreams/760676b6-f9fc-48a4-9a32-aae0cdd3a2d2/download – This clinical review, based on intervention studies, details the use of oral K2HPO4 for treating hypophosphatemia. It reports that doses ranging from 250 mg to 1500 mg, administered two to three times daily, were effective in restoring phosphate levels. The review also notes its utility in preventing kidney stones, providing practical clinical insights despite limitations in sample size and randomized controlled trial data.
