Slow
K:
Substance: Potassium Chloride
Slow release tablets. This drug is indicated for the treatment
of potassium depletion. This could be caused by disease or in
the case of some bodybuilders it is caused by the use of strong
diuretics. This is a strong prescription potassium drug. Many
body builders use it several days before and the day of a bodybuilding
contest. Very often bodybuilders use strong diuretics to get ripped
up. The users of these drugs cause the body to lose a great deal
of sodium and potassium. With the loss of potassium, which helps
keep water balance in the muscles, the muscles usually are left
very flat looking. Not only that but they can tie up into severe
cramps when flexed. The use of diuretics can cause the loss of
up to 3000 mg of potassium per day. This will wipe out reserves
quickly and cause the cramping. In an attempt to keep this from
occurring, many use Slow K. It can keep the muscles looking full
and prevent painful cramping that makes posing impossible. Unfortunately
this drug can be very dangerous. If the athlete gets too much
of it, it can cause cardiac arrest. This is because potassium
is responsible for maintaining heart functions as well. The most
popular way of using Slow K has been to take one tablet every
eight hours, for a total of three, daily, if the bodybuilder is
suffering cramping. If not, they usually use one tablet per day
just to keep the muscles from getting too flat. Slow K is used
only when the athlete is taking a diuretic like Lasix, and only
for three or four days; the three preceding and day of a show
in most cases. Other side effects may occur like vomiting, nausea,
and diarrhea. Also it can cause bleeding ulcers in the gastrointestinal
tract. This happens with prolonged use though. Dosages should
be individualized by a doctor because of the side effects. It
has been available on the market, but most often athletes get
this drug from their doctor. It usually costs about $1 per tablet. |
