citric acid/potassium citrate - oral, Polycitra-K

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GENERIC NAME: CITRIC ACID/POTASSIUM CITRATE - ORAL (SIT-rick/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 is used to make the urine less acidic. This effect helps the kidneys get rid of uric acid, thereby helping to prevent gout and kidney stones. This medication can also prevent and treat certain metabolic problems (acidosis) caused by kidney disease.Citric acid and citrate salts (which contain potassium and sodium) belong to a class of drugs known as urinary alkalinizers. If you have a condition that requires you to limit your intake of potassium and sodium, your doctor may direct you to take a product that is lower in potassium and sodium.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually 4 times a day or as directed by your doctor. To help prevent diarrhea, take each dose after a meal. To prevent stomach upset, mix your prescribed dose of medication in a full glass (4 to 8 ounces or 120 to 240 milliliters) of cold water or juice just before taking, or take as directed by your doctor. Drink the entire mixture slowly. If you still have stomach upset, mixing your dose in a larger amount of liquid may help unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for further instructions.The liquid form of this medication must be mixed with at least 4 ounces (120 milliliters) of water or juice before taking. If you are using the powdered/crystal form of this medication, mix the contents of the packet in at least 3/4 cup (6 ounces or 180 milliliters) of cool water or juice before taking.Refrigerating the mixture before drinking may improve the taste. Drink more water or juice after taking this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this medication.Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take this more often without your doctor's approval. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.While taking this medication, you may need to test the pH (acidity) of your urine using special paper. The pH will help determine the proper dose. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

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. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.