Sodium Bicarbonate (Sodium bicarbonate)

Do's

• Take this medication by mouth, usually every 4 hours as needed or as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Some tablets should be dissolved in a glass of water before swallowing, while others may be swallowed whole or dissolved in water before swallowing. Follow all directions on the product package for the specific product you are taking.
• If you are self-treating and your acid problems last or get worse after using this product for 2 weeks, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek medical help immediately .
• If you consistently take this medication for more than 2 weeks on a daily basis, consult your healthcare provider  for alternative treatment.
• Use sodium bicarbonate exactly as directed by the label or as prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you have any questions, always consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

Common Side Effects:

• Increased Thirst
• Stomach Cramps
• Gas
• Urinating More Than Usual

Serious Side Effects:

• Severe Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting that Resembles Coffee Grounds
• Loss of Appetite
• Irritability
• Weakness
• Frequent Urge to Urinate
• Slow Breathing
• Swelling of Feet or Lower Legs
• Blood in the Urine
• Bloody or Black Stools

Allergic Reactions:

A very serious allergic reaction to sodium bicarbonate is rare. Seek immediate medical help if you notice symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking sodium bicarbonate, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice. 

Sodium bicarbonate is a very quick-acting antacid and should be used only for temporary relief. If you need to treat long-term stomach acid problems, such as peptic ulcer disease or GERD, consult your healthcare provider about other medications.

Large doses of calcium from your diet, medications, or supplements can rarely cause a serious problem called milk-alkali syndrome when taken with sodium bicarbonate. Ask your healthcare provider about using calcium products safely while using this medication.

Before taking sodium bicarbonate, inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems.

Ask a healthcare provider if it is safe for you to take this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, or if you are on a low salt diet.

Avoid taking sodium bicarbonate without a healthcare provider’s advice if you regularly take other medicines. Inform each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function and concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

When handling sodium bicarbonate, take safety precautions to avoid respiratory, skin, and eye irritation. Protective gloves and clothing should be worn, and in case of ingestion, drink plenty of water and seek medical attention if discomfort persists.

Adhere to these warnings and precautions when using sodium bicarbonate. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of this medication.