Sometimes, the amount of acid in our body can become unbalanced and increase. When that happens, there is a high chance of developing painful conditions like kidney stones and gout. So, did your doctor prescribe a liquid medicine for you to control this acidity in the body? That medicine is a solution called Sodium Citrate and Citric Acid. Today, we will talk simply about this medicine, how to use it, and everything you need to be careful about.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, this medicine works by reducing the acidity in your body and urine. In medical terms, this is what we call an 'Alkalinizing agent', which means it makes the body alkaline.
Imagine, when things like uric acid increase in our body, they accumulate and form kidney stones. They also deposit in the joints and cause a painful condition called gout. So when this medicine reduces the acidity of the urine, things like uric acid dissolve easily and are eliminated from the body. Therefore, it helps to prevent the formation of kidney stones and dissolve some types of stones that have already formed . Also, it is given as a treatment for cases where the body's acid level increases due to problems in some metabolic processes (metabolic acidosis).
Things you should tell your doctor before taking medication
Before prescribing this medication, it is important to tell your doctor about your complete health history. Be sure to tell them if you have any of the following conditions:
| Your health condition | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| Kidney disease | This medicine is eliminated from the body through the kidneys. If the kidneys are not working properly, the medicine can build up in the body and cause side effects. |
| Heart disease | Because this medicine contains sodium, it can increase the amount of fluid in the body and put extra strain on the heart. |
| High potassium levels in the blood | Some types of this medication can increase potassium levels even further. |
| Addison's disease | This is a hormonal condition, and the doctor should be aware of it as it can affect sodium and potassium levels. |
| Dehydration | Taking this medicine when the body is dehydrated may cause electrolyte imbalances. |
| Eating a low-sodium diet | Because this medication contains sodium, your doctor should be aware of how it will affect your diet. |
| Being pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | In these cases, it is imperative to seek medical advice before taking any medication. |
| Allergies to anything | Be sure to tell us if you have any allergies to this medicine or any of its ingredients, other medicines, or foods. |
How do you use this medicine?
The best results can be achieved by using this medicine correctly.
The correct way to take medicine
This medicine comes in a liquid form. Measure the exact amount your doctor tells you to take. Most importantly, do not drink it straight. Make sure to mix it well with a glass of water (at least 180 milliliters or 6 ounces). This will help reduce stomach upset and nausea. It is usually taken after meals . Take the medicine at the prescribed intervals as directed by your doctor. Do not take more than the prescribed amount.
What to do if you miss a dose of medicine?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose (for example, within an hour or two), skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once.
Important: This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not give it to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you.
What if I take too much medicine? (Overdose)
If you think you have taken too much medicine, don't panic. Go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Other drugs that may interact with this medicine (Drug Interactions)
It is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including vitamins and herbal products, because some medications can interact with this.
| Type of medicine | Possible impact |
|---|---|
| Don't mess with these. | |
| Antacids - especially those containing aluminum or calcium | It can unnecessarily increase the body's absorption of aluminum or calcium. |
| Ammonium chloride | The actions of these two drugs are opposite to each other. |
| Tell your doctor if you are taking this medicine. | |
| Some antibiotics - e.g. ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin | It can reduce the body's absorption of antibiotics. |
| Lithium | It can increase the removal of lithium from the body and reduce its effectiveness. |
| Methenamine | This medicine for urinary tract infections requires acidic urine to work. Sodium citrate alkalizes the urine, so it may not work here. |
| Some stimulant medications | Medications for conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may affect the effectiveness of the medication. |
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people, but not everyone does.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| If you experience these symptoms, inform your doctor immediately. | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| High sodium level in the body | Confusion, excessive thirst, muscle weakness or twitching, feeling unusually tired. |
| These are usually not serious, but if they persist, tell your doctor. | |
| Digestive system problems | Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (These can be greatly reduced by diluting the medicine in water and drinking it). |
Take-Home Message
- Never drink sodium citrate liquid directly. Always dilute it well in a glass of water before drinking.
- It is often recommended to take this medicine after a meal .
- Tell your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and herbal products you are taking.
- If you miss a dose, never take two doses at once.
- Attend blood tests and clinical examinations prescribed by the doctor as scheduled.
- Store the medicine in a safe place, out of the reach of small children , at room temperature.
- If you experience any serious side effects or suspect an overdose, seek medical advice immediately.
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