• About Us
  • International Patients
  • Pay Online
  • Careers
  • Enquire Now
  • Feedback
  • phone icon +91-40 6165 6565
  • Location Image
  • phone icon 040 6810 6589
icon
×

Sodium Bicarbonate

Baking soda, often known as Sodium Bicarbonate, is a white crystalline substance having the chemical formula NaHCO3. It is a frequent component in baking and cooking, in which it is used as an agent of leavening to aid in the rise of the dough. It's also used as a cleaner, a fire extinguisher, and a medical therapy for a number of ailments.

What are the uses of Sodium Bicarbonate?

Here are some common uses of Sodium Bicarbonate:

call us

book an appointment

How and when to take Sodium Bicarbonate?

Medical Sodium Bicarbonate can be taken orally as a tablet or solution to treat acidosis, urinary tract infections, kidney stones, heartburn and indigestion, and exercise-induced acidosis. Dosage and frequency will vary depending on the condition being treated and the individual needs of the patient. If experiencing any side effects or unusual symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

What is the main purpose of sodium bicarbonate?

Sodium bicarbonate, also called baking soda, helps ease heartburn, sour stomach, or acid indigestion by balancing too much stomach acid. When it's used to do this, it's categorized as an antacid medication. It can also be used to address the symptoms of stomach or duodenal ulcers and provide relief from discomfort caused by these conditions.

What are the side effects of Sodium Bicarbonate?

There could be some common side effects of Sodium Bicarbonate, such as

  • Metabolic alkalosis
  • Fluid retention.
  • High blood pressure
  • Loss of potassium
  • Gas and bloating. 
  • Headache and nausea
  • Allergic reaction

It is important to discuss any potential side effects of Sodium Bicarbonate with a healthcare provider before taking it. If experiencing any severe or concerning side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

What are the 5 uses of sodium bicarbonate?

Sodium bicarbonate is frequently used by people to alleviate indigestion. It is also used for other conditions such as: 

  • Stomach ulcers
  • Improving athletic performance 
  • Addressing kidney issues
  • Dealing with dental plaque
  • Tooth discoloration

What precautions should be taken?

Here are some precautions to take when using Sodium Bicarbonate:

  • Medical history: Before taking Sodium Bicarbonate, inform your healthcare provider of any medical conditions you have, including heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, high blood pressure, or enema.
  • Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to Sodium Bicarbonate or any other medications or substances.
  • Interactions: Sodium Bicarbonate may interact with certain medications, such as antibiotics, diuretics, and medications for heart disease. Inform your healthcare provider of any medications you are currently taking.
  • Dosage: Follow the recommended dosage provided by your healthcare provider or the product label.
  • Timing of use: Follow the recommended timing of use provided by your healthcare provider or the product label. For example, Sodium Bicarbonate may be taken after meals or as needed for heartburn relief.
  • Storage: Store Sodium Bicarbonate at room temperature and away from moisture and heat.
  • Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Consult with a healthcare provider before using Sodium Bicarbonate if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
  • Monitoring: If using Sodium Bicarbonate for a medical condition, your healthcare provider may monitor your electrolyte levels and kidney function to ensure that the treatment is working effectively and safely. 

It is important to follow these precautions to ensure that Sodium Bicarbonate is used safely and effectively.

What if I missed the dose of Sodium Bicarbonate?

If you realize that you have missed a dosage of Sodium Bicarbonate, you can take it as and when you remember. If the next dose is due sometime soon, then you should skip the missed dose. Taking a double dose, in any case, to make up for the missed dose is not recommended.

What if there is an overdose of Sodium Bicarbonate?

Overdose of Sodium Bicarbonate can cause serious side effects and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose may include:

  • Severe headache
  • Rapid breathing
  • Confusion
  • Muscle twitching
  • Seizures
  • Swelling of the feet, ankles, or legs
  • Abnormal heart rhythms
  • High blood pressure

If you suspect an overdose of Sodium Bicarbonate, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical attention immediately.

What are the storage conditions for Sodium Bicarbonate?

  • Store Sodium Bicarbonate in a cool, dry place, protected from heat, light, and moisture. 

  • Also, do not put them in a place where children can reach them.

  • Keep them at room temperature, between 20 and 25 C (68-77F).

Caution with other medicine

Sodium Bicarbonate may interact with certain medications you are currently taking. Some medications that may interact with Sodium Bicarbonate include:

  • Antibiotics
  • Diuretics
  • Medications for heart disease
  • Aspirin and other salicylates
  • Blood thinners

If you are taking any of the above medications, you should inform your doctor about it, as they will provide you with alternatives if necessary.

How quickly does Sodium Bicarbonate show results?

The time taken by Sodium Bicarbonate to show results can vary depending on its intended use. It can provide relief from heartburn symptoms within minutes of taking it, start to show results within hours for the treatment of metabolic acidosis, and may take several weeks or months to show improvement in kidney function for patients with chronic kidney disease. 

Comparison of a Sodium Bicarbonate combination medicine with a Potassium Bicarbonate 

 

 

Sodium Bicarbonate

 

Potassium Bicarbonate

Composition

 Sodium Bicarbonate is composed of sodium, hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen. This compound is composed of potassium, hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen.

Uses

It is used for a number of purposes, including as an antacid to relieve heartburn and indigestion, as a treatment for metabolic acidosis, and as a component of baking powder and other food products.

It is used as a dietary supplement to increase potassium levels, as a replacement for Sodium Bicarbonate in food products for people on a low-sodium diet, and as a component of some fire extinguishers.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Sodium Bicarbonate include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and headache. In rare cases, it can cause severe side effects, such as high blood pressure, fluid retention, and electrolyte imbalances.

Common side effects of potassium bicarbonate include diarrhoea, stomach upset, and nausea. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects, such as hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) and metabolic alkalosis.

FAQs

1. How does Sodium Bicarbonate work as an antacid?

Sodium Bicarbonate works by neutralizing excess stomach acid, which can provide temporary relief from heartburn and indigestion symptoms.

2. Are there any potential side effects or risks associated with Sodium Bicarbonate use as an antacid?

While Sodium Bicarbonate can provide relief from heartburn, excessive or prolonged use can lead to sodium and bicarbonate overload, which may cause electrolyte imbalances and other health issues. It's essential to use it as directed and not exceed recommended doses.

3. Is Sodium Bicarbonate used during cardiac arrest situations?

Yes, Sodium Bicarbonate may be administered during cardiac resuscitation efforts to help correct acid-base imbalances and improve the effectiveness of chest compressions.

4. Can Sodium Bicarbonate be used to manage kidney disease or kidney stones?

Sodium Bicarbonate may be prescribed in some cases of kidney disease to help manage acid-base balance. It can also be used to reduce the formation of uric acid kidney stones.

5. How does Sodium Bicarbonate work in the treatment of acidosis?

Sodium Bicarbonate is an alkaline substance that can help neutralize excess acid in the blood, which is a common feature of metabolic acidosis.

References:

https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Sodium-bicarbonate https://www.rxlist.com/consumer_sodium_bicarbonate_baking_soda/drugs-condition.htm https://www.healthline.com/health/sodium-bicarbonate-side-effects

Disclaimer: The information provided here is not meant to substitute an advice from a healthcare professional. The information is not intended to cover all the possible uses, side-effects, precautions, and drug interactions. This information is not intended to suggest that using a specific drug is suitable, safe, or efficient for you or anyone else. The absence of any information or warning regarding the drug should not be interpreted as an implicit guarantee from the organisation. We strongly advise you to consult a doctor if you have any concerns about the drug and never use the medication without a doctor’s prescription.