NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

Ace your North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) with our comprehensive practice test. Features include interactive flashcards, multiple-choice questions, with detailed hints and explanations. Fast-track your pharmacy career today!

Practice this question and more.


What should potassium oral supplements be taken with to reduce GI upset?

  1. A full glass of water and food

  2. An empty stomach

  3. A small amount of liquid

  4. Without any liquid

The correct answer is: A full glass of water and food

Potassium oral supplements can often cause gastrointestinal (GI) upset, which can include symptoms like nausea or stomach discomfort. Taking potassium supplements with a full glass of water and food is recommended to help reduce the likelihood of experiencing GI upset. Water can help ensure proper absorption of the potassium supplement, while taking it with food can help buffer the stomach and minimize any potential irritation that the supplement may cause. Therefore, option A is the correct choice in this scenario. Taking potassium supplements on an empty stomach (option B) might increase the likelihood of experiencing GI upset. Similarly, taking them with only a small amount of liquid (option C) may not provide enough hydration for proper absorption. Lastly, taking potassium supplements without any liquid (option D) is not recommended as sufficient fluid intake is essential for the proper functioning of potassium in the body.