This paper reviews and presents data from a series of studies evaluating the extent of potassium depletion that occurs in various disease states and a comparison of the efficacy of potassium supplementation or potassium sparing diuretics in its correction. Changes in serum potassium levels are common after diuretics but are relatively minor in most people if small doses of diuretics are used. Total body potassium deficit is uncommon in people treated with a diuretic for hypertension and the fall in serum potassium results from alkalosis and a shift of potassium into the cell. Potassium sparing diuretics correct the potassium abnormality more readily than potassium supplements. Evidence is also presented that suggests that a high salt, low potassium diet may be an important cause of hypokalemia in people given diuretics.