Abstract
(1) The failure of `Slow-K' tablets to disintegrate prevents rapid release but allows them to be trapped by their bulk in the intestine.
(2) Two cases are reported. In the first the tablet was trapped in a caecal diverticulum and the patient developed an abcess. In the second, abdominal pain developed which subsided when `Slow-K' was stopped. Later `Slow-K' was again started and the patient developed dysphagia.
(3) The possibility of abdominal complications with this treatment should be remembered.
(4) Effervescent KC1 preparations may replace `Slow-K' but KC1 supplementation may be necessary only in cardiac disease.
- © Journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners
