[lonnisue]

I have been searching the internet to see if there is such a thinga as a mEq to miligram conversion.  I am trying to figure out how many mEqs of potassium my son is getting in his  diet compared to what he needs??  This came up on one of my searches so thought I would ask you all

[savoy7]

mEq is a unit used w/electrolytes - basically how many ions of the electrolyte are present

I've seen it used in IV's (Na+, Li+, and K+ ions).  Usually they give you the concentration in mEq/liter.  Today the units are usually ug/liter.

To convert mg to mEq one needs to know the form the potassium is in.  Is it a compound or ion, etc.

for KCl - usually in IVs
1 mEq of KCl = 1/1000 x 74.5 g = 0.0745 g = 74.5 mg

for K+ ions
1 mEq of K+ = 1/1000 x 39.g = 0.039 g = 39. mg

Note: this is because K+ has a valence of 1

I hope this helps to steer you in the right direction.

Savoy