Sodium Chloride Tablets: Let's learn about this medicine?

Have you ever been prescribed something like 'salt tablets' by a doctor? Or maybe you've heard of them as a heavy sweater or an athlete. What exactly are these sodium chloride tablets? Why are they used? Let's talk about them simply.

Why is sodium important for our body?

Simply put, sodium is a mineral that is essential for the functioning of our body. Think of our body as a car. Just as an engine needs oil, sodium is essential for our nervous system and muscles to function properly. Sodium also helps maintain proper hydration levels in the body.

Due to certain medical conditions, excessive sweating, or other reasons, the body's sodium levels can become dangerously low. Doctors prescribe sodium chloride tablets to restore and prevent such low sodium levels.

Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

For your own safety, you should definitely tell your doctor about these things before starting this medication, as this medication may not be suitable for some people.

• If you have heart disease .
• If you have high blood pressure .
• If you suffer from kidney disease or liver disease .
• If a doctor has previously told you that your blood sodium level is already high.
• If you have been advised to follow a low salt diet .
• If you are pregnant or expecting a baby.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother .
• If you have an allergic reaction to any other medicine, food, or dye, be sure to tell us about that as well.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine should be used exactly as your doctor has instructed.

Usually, you can swallow this pill whole with a glass of water. Sometimes your doctor will tell you to dissolve the pill in water and drink it. If you dissolve it in water, use the exact amount of water (for example, 120 ml). Never take more than the number of times your doctor tells you to take it or the amount prescribed.

What to do if you take too much medicine?

Imagine you have taken more than the prescribed dose. This can be dangerous. If this happens, go to the nearest hospital emergency room (ETU) immediately. Or,Call the National Poison Information Center at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Never share it with anyone else. It could be dangerous for them.

What if I miss a medication appointment?

If you are prescribed this medicine daily, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the regular time. Never take a double dose.

Other medications that may interact with this medicine

If you are taking other medications, it is very important to tell your doctor about them as well. Some medications can interact with these sodium tablets. Especially:

• Medications for mental illness, such as lithium
• Steroid medications like Prednisone or Cortisone

This list is not complete, so tell your doctor about all the medications, vitamins, and even herbal products you are taking.

What side effects might I experience?

Like any medication, sodium chloride tablets can cause side effects in some people. Let's be aware of them.

How should I store the medicine? How should I dispose of it?

It is very important to keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets . Store at normal room temperature (between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius).

How do you dispose of expired or no longer needed medications? The best and safest advice on this is to ask your doctor. Some medications are not suitable for disposal in the trash. Therefore, ask your doctor if there is a better way to dispose of them, such as in the trash, down the toilet, or in another location.