Hypokalemia does not require long-term medication, which can be stopped once the medication has brought the blood potassium back into the normal range. However, it is important to find the cause of hypokalemia and treat it for that cause. For example, if the hypokalemia is due to aldosteronism of the endocrine system, or hyperthyroidism, long-term medication may be required to control the primary cause. Patients with hypokalemia will take potassium chloride extended-release tablets to raise their blood potassium, and must monitor their blood potassium closely while on them. Once the blood potassium returns to the normal range, the dosage should be reduced and discontinued promptly. This medication should not be taken for a long period of time as it may lead to excessive elevation of blood potassium. Hyperkalemia is also very harmful to the body, so the correction of hyperkalemia does not require long-term medication, but long-term treatment may be required for the cause of the disease.