Effects of hypokalemia-

* The functional effects of hypokalemia on the kidney can include Na+-Cl- and HCO3- retention, polyuria, phosphaturia, hypocitraturia, and an activation of renal ammoniagenesis. Bicarbonate retention and other acid-base effects of hypokalemia can contribute to the generation of metabolic alkalosis * Hypokalemia is a major risk factor for both ventricular and atrial arrhythmias * Hypokalemia also results in hyperpolarization of skeletal muscle ,thus impairing the capacity to depolarize and contract; weakness and even paralysis may ensue. It also causes a skeletal myopathy and predisposes to rhabdomyolysis. Finally, the paralytic effects of hypokalemia on intestinal smooth muscle may cause intestinal ileus. (REF : harrisons principles of internal medicine, 19E, pg 308)