Intravenous glucose and insulin moves potassium from the extracellular fluids back into the cells. This may reverse severe symptoms long enough to allow correction of the cause of the hyperkalemia. Sodium bicarbonate causes potassium to shift from extracellular to intracellular fluids. It may reverse hyperkalemia caused by acidosis with no other treatment required. Prolonged use of sodium bicarbonate should be avoided because it may cause severe complications.
Diuretic medications cause decrease in total body potassium.
They may be prescribed for persons who can tolerate the loss of body fluid that accompanies use of a diuretic. These medications may be given orally or rectally. Dialysis may be used to reduce total body potassium levels, especially if kidney function is compromised. Dialysis is indicated when more conservative measures have failed or are inappropriate. Treatment of chronic renal failure may include dietary potassium restriction.