Did your doctor prescribe you a liquid medicine? Did he say it reduces the acidity of the body, stops the formation of kidney stones, or treats gout , a condition caused by an increase in uric acid? Then this is probably the medicine you are talking about. Most often, the name of this medicine is Potassium Citrate and Citric Acid (Potassium Citrate; Citric Acid) solution. So today, let's talk about this medicine, what it does, how to use it, and things to be careful about.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, this medicine works by reducing the acidity, or acidity, in your body, especially in your urine. We call this type of medicine an 'alkalizing agent'.
Imagine, sometimes things like uric acid accumulate in our bodies, making it difficult to pass them out with urine. Then, these can be deposited inside the body and form kidney stones. Also, they can be deposited in the joints and cause a painful condition called gout .
So, when this medicine reduces the acidity of the urine, that is, when the urine is made slightly alkaline, things like uric acid dissolve well and start to exit the body more easily. This not only prevents the formation of new stones, but also helps dissolve some small stones that already exist.
What are the things I need to tell the doctor before taking this medicine?
This medicine is not suitable for everyone. Therefore, before you start taking this medicine, you should definitely tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions.
| Do you have this condition? | Why is it important to tell the doctor ? |
|---|---|
| Kidney disease or difficulty urinating | This medicine is eliminated from the body through the kidneys. If the kidneys are weak, the medicine may accumulate in the body and increase the side effects. |
| Increased potassium levels in the blood | Because this medicine contains potassium, it can be dangerous for someone who already has high potassium levels. |
| Addison's disease | This is a hormonal condition and can affect potassium levels. |
| Heart disease or heart rhythm disorders | Changes in potassium levels in the body directly affect heart function. |
| If the body is dehydrated | Since dehydration affects the kidneys, it can affect the effectiveness of the medication. |
| If you are pregnant or expecting a baby | As with any medication, it is essential to talk to your doctor about this. |
| If the baby is breastfed | Consult your doctor about whether the medicine passes to the baby through breast milk. |
| If you have allergies to other medicines, foods, or dyes | It is important to check if you are allergic to anything in the medicine. |
How should I use this medicine?
How you use this is very important. If you take it incorrectly, it can cause stomach upset.
- Take after meals: Always take this medicine after a meal. Do not take it on an empty stomach.
- Dilute with water or juice: It is not recommended to drink this directly. Take the amount prescribed by the doctor (e.g. 15 ml), add it to a glass full of cold water or fruit juice, stir well and drink. This will greatly reduce stomach upset and nausea.
- Take it at the right time: If your doctor tells you to take it three times a day, try to take it exactly at those times.
- If you miss a dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time.
Warning: Overdose
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
Other medications you are taking may affect the way this medicine works, so it is very important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies).
| Don't take these with anything! | |
|---|---|
| Potassium supplements and salt substitutes | Potassium levels in the body can become dangerously high. |
| Antacids with aluminum | The medication may interfere with its function. |
| Eplerenone (a medicine for heart disease) | Potassium levels can become very high. |
| If you are taking this medication, be sure to tell your doctor. | |
| Some high blood pressure medications (e.g. Enalapril, Losartan) | These can also increase potassium levels. |
| Some diuretics (e.g. Spironolactone, Triamterene) | Because these retain potassium in the body, levels can increase. |
| Some antibiotics (e.g. Ciprofloxacin) | The effectiveness of both medications may be affected. |
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
- Routine tests: Your doctor will ask you to have regular blood tests. This is very important. It checks whether your kidneys are functioning properly and whether your blood potassium levels are normal.
- Diet: Your doctor may tell you to limit your intake of foods high in potassium (bananas, oranges, tomatoes, potatoes, and grapefruit). Ask your doctor for more information.
- Drink plenty of water: The best thing you can do to prevent kidney stones is to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Also, consult your doctor about this.
What are the possible side effects?
| Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| Symptoms of high potassium levels | Muscle weakness, numbness, fast or irregular heartbeat, chest tightness. |
| Usually nothing to worry about, but if it persists, tell your doctor. | |
| Stomach pain | This is reduced by taking the medicine with food and water. |
| Nausea and vomiting | This can be controlled by dissolving the medicine in a glass of water. |
| Diarrhea | It usually subsides within a few days. |
How to store the medicine?
- Keep away from children.
- Store at room temperature (between 15-30 Celsius). Do not refrigerate or freeze.
- Close the bottle cap tightly.
- Discard after expiration.
Take-Home Message
- Always take this medicine after a meal, thoroughly diluted in a glass of water or fruit juice.
- Take your prescribed dose at the prescribed time. Never take two doses at the same time.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and traditional medicines you are taking.
- If you experience any serious side effects, such as muscle weakness or changes in heart rate, seek medical advice immediately.
- Do not skip the blood tests prescribed by your doctor and have them done on the scheduled dates.
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