Sodium Bicarbonate
Information about Sodium Bicarbonate
Sodium bicarbonate uses
Sodium Bicarbonate is used as alkalinizing agent. It is used as an alkalinizing agent in the treatment of metabolic acidosis, severe diarrhea, acidity, and poisoning.
How sodium bicarbonate works
Sodium Bicarbonate is an alkalizer. It works by increasing the pH of blood and urine, thereby correcting metabolic acidosis (high acid levels in the body). It also speeds up the removal of toxic substances from the body in certain types of poisoning. In case of excessive fluid loss (such as in diarrhea), it works by replenishing salt and electrolyte levels.
Common side effects of sodium bicarbonate
Stomach pain, Belching, Flatulence
Content Details
Last updated on:
09 Jun 2019 | 12:13 PM (IST)
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Frequently asked questions for Sodium Bicarbonate
Sodium Bicarbonate
Q. What is Sodium Bicarbonate tablet used for? How does it work?
Sodium Bicarbonate is an antacid used to relieve acid indigestion, heartburn, and gas. When taken orally, it neutralizes the acid present in the stomach by producing carbon dioxide which results in reduction of irritation in stomach and intestine.
Q. Is Sodium Bicarbonate harmful?
Sodium Bicarbonate is safe if used as a medication and as prescribed by the doctor. However, excess of Sodium Bicarbonate can disturb the fine balance of electrolytes (like sodium, potassium, carbonate, etc.) that is needed by the body to function properly. As a result, it can cause unwanted side effects. Therefore, to avoid such disturbances, Sodium Bicarbonate is usually prescribed for maximum of 2 weeks when taken orally as taking it in excess can cause transient alkalosis, which can be harmful.
Q. What if I take excess of Sodium Bicarbonate?
Excess of Sodium Bicarbonate causes alkalosis (excessive blood alkalinity) which can be observed as mood changes, tiredness, slow breathing, muscle weakness and irregular heartbeat. Muscle hypertonicity, twitching and tetany may develop, especially in patients with low levels of calcium in blood.