Potassium dichloroacetate (KDCA) is the potassium salt form of dichloroacetic acid. Its CAS number is 19559-59-2 and molecular weight is 172.97 g/mol. Like sodium DCA, it appears as a white crystalline powder that dissolves readily in water.

The active component of KDCA is the dichloroacetate anion — identical to that in sodium DCA. Once dissolved and absorbed, the potassium ion and dichloroacetate ion dissociate, and it is the dichloroacetate that exerts the biological effect. Both forms inhibit pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK), reactivating pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) and pushing cellular metabolism toward mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation.

Potassium DCA is significantly rarer than sodium DCA. The vast majority of published research uses the sodium salt, meaning KDCA’s pharmacokinetics and safety profile are less well characterised. However, the mechanism is chemically identical — the counterion does not alter the mode of action.

KDCA may be preferred by individuals monitoring sodium intake, those on low-sodium protocols for cardiovascular reasons, or researchers specifically studying the potassium salt form. The molar equivalent dose is slightly higher due to the greater molecular weight.

This article is for informational and educational purposes only. AuraDCA products are intended for research use only.