citric acid/sodium citrate - oral, Bicitra, Cytra-2, Oracit, Shoh
GENERIC NAME: CITRIC ACID/SODIUM CITRATE - ORAL (SO-dee-um SYE-trate/SIT-rick)
BRAND NAME(S): Bicitra, Cytra-2, Oracit, Shohl's
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. Urine that is less acidic helps the kidneys get rid of uric acid, helping to prevent gout and certain types of kidney stones (urate). 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. Because some conditions require you to limit your intake of potassium and sodium, your doctor's choice of product may depend on how much potassium and sodium you can take.
HOW TO USE: Shake the container well before each dose. Take this medication by mouth, usually 4 times a day or as directed by your doctor. To help prevent diarrhea and stomach upset, take each dose after a meal, and 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. 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.Refrigerating the mixture before drinking may improve the taste. Drink more water or juice after taking this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.Take this medication 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.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain may occur. Mixing the medication with water or juice, taking it after meals, and drinking more fluids will help prevent these side effects. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: swelling of the hands/ankles/feet, tingling/numbness of the hands/feet, weakness.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion, restlessness), muscle spasms, seizures.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
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.
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