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Pharmaceutical versus Over-the-Counter Potassium Citrate: A Benchtop Comparison
Daniel G Wong1, Lauren Elson1, Charles U Nottingham1
1Division of Urologic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri.
Urology Practice
|May 5, 2023
Summary
Over-the-counter potassium citrate supplements vary in alkali citrate content and cost. Some supplements offer cheaper alkali citrate than pharmaceutical options, but may require more pills.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Urology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Potassium citrate reduces kidney stone recurrence by increasing urine citrate and alkalinity.
- High cost of pharmaceutical potassium citrate drives interest in over-the-counter (OTC) supplements.
- Limited data exists on the actual alkali citrate content of popular OTC supplements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the alkali citrate content and cost-effectiveness of leading OTC potassium citrate supplements against pharmaceutical-grade potassium citrate (Urocit®-K).
Main Methods:
- Six top-selling OTC potassium citrate supplements were purchased and analyzed.
- Alkali citrate content was measured using a colorimetric assay kit after dissolving supplements in water.
- pH was measured using a pH electrode to calculate alkali citrate content per unit.
Main Results:
- Urocit®-K and Thorne® exhibited the highest alkali citrate content per gram.
- NOW® and Nutricost® provided the most cost-effective alkali citrate, costing less than 1 cent per mEq.
- Significant variability in citrate content and cost was observed among tested supplements.
Conclusions:
- OTC potassium citrate supplements differ significantly in cost and citrate concentration.
- Cost-effective options exist among OTC supplements, though they may require a higher pill count compared to Urocit®-K.
- This comparative analysis aids patients and providers in selecting supplements based on cost and convenience preferences.
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