GENERIC NAME: SODIUM CITRATE (ALK)/CITRIC ACID - ORAL LIQUID (SO-dee-um SYE-trate/SIT-rick acid)
BRAND NAME(S): Bicitra, Cytra-2, Liqui-Citra, Oracit, Shohl's
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 in the treatment of certain kidney disorders 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 or as directed by your doctor. 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, vomiting, stomach pain, fluid retention (water gain), 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: Before using this medicine, tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney or heart disease, liver disease, Addison's disease, high blood pressure, sodium- restricted diet, allergies (especially drug allergies). This drug should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use including: lithium, aspirin and NSAID (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen), heart medicines, methenamine, tetracyclines, chlorpropamide, ephedrine or pseudoephedrine (may be found in many cough-and-cold products), azole antibiotics (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), all diet medicines. 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.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Specialty RSS
Interactive Slideshows