sodium bicarbonate - oral
GENERIC NAME: SODIUM BICARBONATE - ORAL (SO-dee-um bye-KAR-buh-nate)
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects |
Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes |
Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Sodium bicarbonate reduces stomach acid. It is used as an antacid to treat heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomach. Sodium bicarbonate is a very quick-acting antacid. It should be used only for temporary relief. If you need to treat long-term stomach acid problems (e.g., peptic ulcer disease, GERD), talk with your doctor about other medications.Sodium bicarbonate is the active ingredient in baking soda.OTHER This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.This medication may be 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. It can make some medications (e.g., sulfonamides) work better or can help your body get rid of too much medication (e.g., phenobarbital). This medication can also prevent and treat certain metabolic problems (acidosis) caused by kidney disease.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually every 4 hours as needed or as directed by your doctor. Follow all directions on the product package. If you are uncertain about any of the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.If you are self-treating and your acid problems persist or worsen after you have used this product for 2 weeks, or if you think you have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention. If you are using this medication regularly on a daily basis for more than 2 weeks, you may have a medical problem that needs different treatment. Ask your doctor if this is the right medication for you.If your doctor has directed you to take this medication for acidosis or to alkalinize your urine, your dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To get the most benefit from this medication, take it regularly, exactly as directed. It is usually taken by mouth several times a day. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. Do not increase the dose, take it more often or continue taking this for longer than prescribed.
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