I am taking an inhaled steroid/beta agonist combo (boo hiss) that can deplete potassium and recently started hydrochlothiazide diuretic because said inhaler raised my blood pressure. I take an ARB which is not exactly the same but similar to ACE inhibitor.

I get muscle cramps from the inhaler which can be due to potassium depletion and the first time I took the diuretic I wanted to go to the ER and get a shot of muscle relaxer. One of my big toes felt like someone was bending it far back and I had spasms in my hands and severe cramps everywhere. I got some potassium chloloride from the doctor and as soon as it dissolved in my stomach and hit my bloodstream it went 'wham' into my heart. I have no idea if it was a significant cardiac pain but it was the worst one I have ever had.

I am eating dried apricots for potassium now, you need to be very careful with that stuff.

judi