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 acids and can make the urine less acidic. It is used as an antacid to treat heartburn, indigestion, and other stomach disorders. It is also used to treat various kidney disorders and to increase the effectiveness of sulfonamides.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as directed. Chewable tablets are to be chewed thoroughly before swallowing followed by a glass of water. Take this medication exactly as directed. Do not increase the dose, take it more often or continue taking this for longer than prescribed.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication is generally well tolerated. However, high doses may cause headache, nausea or irritability. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: muscle weakness, slow reflexes, confusion, swelling of the feet or ankles, black tar-like stools, coffee-ground vomit. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: pre-existing heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, high blood pressure, any allergies. Because this medication contains a large amount of sodium, remind your doctor if you are on a low sodium 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 appear 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. This medication has the potential to interact with many medications. Do not take any other medication within 1 to 2 hours of taking an antacid. Discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist. 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.
- Electrolytes - Read about blood electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicorbonate) and the effects of electrolyte imbalances like kidney failure, low blood pressure, hypokalemia, and hyperkalemia.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD, Heartburn) - Learn about gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD, acid reflux, heartburn) symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation, and nausea. Causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention information is also included.
- Indigestion (Dyspepsia, Upset Stomach) - Learn about dyspepsia (indigestion, upset stomach) symptoms such as upper abdominal pain, belching, nausea, vomiting, abdominal bloating, abdominal distention, and a feeling of fullness after eating a small amount of food.
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