Potassium Orotate, with the CAS number 24598-73-0, is an organic potassium salt formed by the combination of potassium ions and orotic acid, also known as Potassium 1,2,3,6-tetrahydro-2,6-dioxopyrimidine-4-carboxylate. Its molecular formula is C₅H₄KN₂O₄, and its molecular weight is 180.19 g/mol. It integrates the physiological functions of potassium and orotic acid, featuring high bioavailability, good biocompatibility, and excellent chemical stability, making it widely applied in pharmaceuticals, nutritional supplements, and health care fields.
Physically, Potassium Orotate appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder or fine granular solid. It has a melting point of approximately 280-285℃ (decomposition) and is soluble in water, forming a clear and stable aqueous solution, while slightly soluble in ethanol and insoluble in non-polar solvents. It is odorless and tasteless, with low hygroscopicity and good stability under normal temperature and pressure when stored properly, facilitating easy handling, storage, and formulation into various dosage forms such as tablets, capsules, and oral solutions.
Chemically, it is a stable organic potassium complex, where orotic acid acts as a chelating agent to bind potassium ions, significantly improving the solubility and bioavailability of potassium compared to inorganic potassium salts (e.g., potassium chloride, potassium carbonate). It retains the core functional groups of orotic acid (pyrimidine ring, carboxyl group) and potassium ions, enabling it to participate in various physiological processes in the body, including electrolyte balance, nucleic acid synthesis, and energy metabolism regulation.
Its core applications focus on pharmaceuticals and nutritional supplements. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used as a raw material for preparing drugs to supplement potassium deficiency, support cardiovascular health, and protect liver function. Potassium is essential for maintaining heart rhythm, nerve conduction, and muscle contraction, while orotic acid promotes nucleic acid synthesis and cell repair, enhancing the therapeutic effect and reducing potential side effects of potassium supplementation.
In nutritional supplements, it is widely used in health products to provide targeted potassium supplementation, suitable for populations with potassium deficiency, such as the elderly, athletes, and those with irregular diets. It also supports bone health, metabolic balance, and overall physiological function. Safety-wise, it is generally recognized as safe (GRAS), non-toxic and non-irritating under normal dosage. It should be stored in a sealed, cool, dry, and dark environment, away from oxidants, moisture, and high temperatures to prevent decomposition. With its high bioavailability and dual physiological benefits, it is a valuable raw material in the health care and pharmaceutical industries.