mg to mEq potassium converter Calculator

Convert milligrams (mg) of potassium to milliequivalents (mEq) for medical and nutritional calculations.

How to Use This Calculator

Enter the amount of potassium in milligrams (mg)
Select the form of potassium compound you're working with
Review your inputs for accuracy
Click Calculate to see the equivalent value in milliequivalents (mEq)

Formula Used

mEq = mg ÷ (Atomic Weight × Valence)

Where:

mEq = milliequivalents (the result)
mg = milligrams of potassium compound
Atomic Weight = 39.1 for elemental potassium
Valence = 1 for potassium (K+)

For specific compounds:

Potassium Chloride (KCl): mEq = mg ÷ 74.5
Potassium Citrate (C6H5K3O7): mEq = mg ÷ 230.2
Potassium Phosphate (K3PO4): mEq = mg ÷ 212.3
Potassium Gluconate (C6H11KO7): mEq = mg ÷ 234.3

Example Calculation

Real-World Scenario:

A healthcare provider needs to determine the milliequivalent dosage of a 20 mEq potassium chloride prescription to ensure the correct amount is administered to a patient.

Given:

Potassium compound = Potassium Chloride (KCl)
Prescribed dose = 20 mEq

Calculation:

For KCl: mEq = mg ÷ 74.5

Rearranging: mg = mEq × 74.5

mg = 20 mEq × 74.5 = 1490 mg

Result: 20 mEq of potassium chloride is equivalent to 1490 mg of potassium chloride.

Why This Calculation Matters

Practical Applications

Medical dosage calculations for IV medications
Nutritional analysis of potassium content in foods
Pharmacy compounding of potassium supplements

Key Benefits

Ensures accurate medication dosing
Helps maintain proper electrolyte balance
Prevents potassium toxicity or deficiency

Common Mistakes & Tips

Different potassium compounds have different molecular weights. Always use the correct molecular weight for the specific compound you're working with. For example, potassium chloride (KCl) has a molecular weight of 74.5, not just the atomic weight of potassium (39.1).

Be clear whether you're working with milligrams of elemental potassium or milligrams of a potassium compound. For example, 100 mg of potassium chloride contains only about 52 mg of elemental potassium. Always clarify which measurement you're using.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milliequivalents (mEq) measure the chemical activity of electrolytes, which is more clinically relevant than just the mass. Since electrolytes function based on their ionic activity, mEq provides a better indication of their physiological effect than milligrams alone.

The normal range of potassium in the blood is typically 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (milliequivalents per liter). Levels below 3.5 mEq/L indicate hypokalemia (potassium deficiency), while levels above 5.0 mEq/L indicate hyperkalemia (excess potassium).

No, this calculator is specifically designed for potassium compounds. Different electrolytes have different atomic weights and valences, so they require different conversion factors. For example, sodium has an atomic weight of 23 and a valence of 1, while calcium has an atomic weight of 40 and a valence of 2.

References & Disclaimer

Medical Disclaimer

This calculator is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions related to medication dosages or treatment plans.

References

Potassium Metabolism - StatPearls - Comprehensive overview of potassium physiology and clinical significance
Hypokalemia - Merck Manual Professional Edition - Clinical information on potassium deficiency
FDA Safety Communication on Potassium Products - Safety information regarding potassium supplementation

Accuracy Notice

While we strive for accuracy, this calculator provides estimates only. The actual conversion may vary slightly based on the specific formulation and purity of the potassium compound. Always verify critical calculations with appropriate medical references or consult with a healthcare professional.

About the Author

Kumaravel Madhavan

Web developer and data researcher creating accurate, easy-to-use calculators across health, finance, education, and construction and more. Works with subject-matter experts to ensure formulas meet trusted standards like WHO, NIH, and ISO.

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health medical-clinical-calculators meq potassium converter medical body weight

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