GENERIC NAME: CITRIC ACID/POTASSIUM-SODIUM CITRATES - ORAL CRYSTALS (SIT-rick acid/poh-TASS-ee-um, SO-dee-um SYE-trates)
BRAND NAME(S): Polycitra-K
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication makes the urine less acidic. It is used to treat and prevent the formation of kidney stones and gout.
HOW TO USE: This medication must be diluted in water before drinking to prevent stomach upset. Take the prescribed dose and dilute it in at least 1/2 glass of water. Stir to mix and drink. Following with additional water. This is usually taken after meals and at bedtime. Take this medication as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take this more often without your doctor's approval.
SIDE EFFECTS: Notify your doctor if you develop: diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, fluid retention, convulsions, unusual weakness, mental confusion, tingling or numbness of the hands or feet. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, heart disease, liver disease, Addison's disease, high blood pressure, allergies. Because this medication contains salt (sodium), tell your doctor if you are on a salt-restricted diet. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of this medication are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: lithium, chlorpropamide, methotrexate, aspirin, water pills, heart or blood medication, methenamine, tetracyclines (including doxycycline and minocycline). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Gout - Gout and hyperuricemia are caused by uric acid crystals building up in the body. Read how diet changes--avoiding alcohol and high purine foods--prevent painful attacks and gout pain.
- Kidney Stones - Learn about kidney stones (renal calculi) symptoms and signs, diagnosis, treatment, prevention and causes. Discover the roles calcium and dehydration play in the formation of painful kidney stones.
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