Potassium bitartrate is a laxative used to treat constipation. Potassium bitartate, also referred to as potassium acid tartrate or cream of tartar, is the potassium acid salt of l-( +)-tartaric acid.
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed · 1 reference
Potassium bitartrate is a carbon dioxide-releasing laxative that works by forming carbon dioxide gas, which creates a mechanical distension against the intestinal wall and induces bowel contractions. Rectal suppositories of carbon dioxide-releasing type of laxative were demonstrated to be useful and safe in the treatment of patients at risk for electrolyte disorders such as the elderly or patients with renal or cardiovascular disorders.
- Primary indication
- Indicated for the treatment of constipation.Curator reviewed · 1 structured indication
- Formula / weight
- C4H5KO6 · 188.176 g/mol (avg)
- First approval
- Canada, 2000 · United States, 2020
- Also known as
- potassium hydrogen tartrate
- Code names
- E-336(I) · INS-336(I) · INS NO.336(I) · NSC-155080
- Brand names
Resolves to
KYKNRZGSIGMXFH-ZVGUSBNCSA-MSMILES[K+].O[C@H]([C@@H](O)C([O-])=O)C(O)=OWhat you can answer from here — as of February 24, 2026
Which other approved drugs treat the same conditions as Potassium bitartrate, and which companies have late-stage candidates in those indications?
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