About sodium bicarbonat e
Alkalinizing agent and electrolyte
Used for
- Treatment of severe metabolic acidosis in selected situations
- Management of certain poisonings, such as tricyclic antidepressant overdose
- Urine alkalinization in selected drug poisonings
- Correction of bicarbonate loss when clinically indicated
Usual adult dose
Dose varies by cause and blood tests; given intravenously by clinicians, with repeat doses guided by response.
Usual dose in children
Dose is weight-based and guided by blood tests; given intravenously by clinicians.
Common side effects
- High blood sodium
- Low blood potassium
- Metabolic alkalosis
- Fluid overload
Important warnings
- Requires monitoring of blood gases, electrolytes, and fluid status.
- Rapid or excessive administration can cause serious electrolyte and acid–base disturbances.
- Use caution with heart failure, kidney impairment, or sodium restriction.
- Not appropriate for every cause of acidosis; treatment depends on the underlying condition.
Pregnancy
Use only when clinically necessary; pregnancy-specific risks depend on dose and clinical circumstances.
Breastfeeding
Sodium bicarbonate is a normal body substance; use during breastfeeding depends on clinical need.
Interactions
- Can reduce absorption or effects of some medicines by changing urine acidity.
- May increase sodium-related risks with corticosteroids or other sodium-containing medicines.
- Can alter lithium or salicylate elimination through changes in urine pH.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.