What is this medication?
SODIUM BICARBONATE (SOE dee um; bye KAR bon ate) treats occasional heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, or other conditions caused by too much stomach acid. It works by reducing the amount of acid in the stomach. It belongs to a group of medications called antacids.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
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What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- Cushing's syndrome
- Heart problems
- Kidney disease
- Low levels of calcium or potassium in the blood
- Low salt or sodium diet
- Stomach ulcer
- An unusual or allergic reaction to sodium bicarbonate, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- Breast-feeding
How should I use this medication?
Take this medication by mouth. Dissolve it in a glass of water before taking. Do not take tablets whole. Take it as directed on the package label. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Patients over 60 years old may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
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What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medication?
Do not take this medication with any of the following:
- Ammonium chloride
This medication may also interact with the following:
- Antibiotics, such as ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, tetracycline
- Aspirin and aspirin-like medications
- Delavirdine
- Ephedra, Ma Huang
- Itraconazole, ketoconazole
- Lithium
- Methenamine
- Norfloxacin
- Quinidine
- Quinine
- Stimulants, such as amphetamine, dexmethylphenidate, and others
- Tolmetin
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
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What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
Do not take this medication for more than 2 weeks unless your care team directs you to. See your care team if your symptoms return. You may have a serious medical condition.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
- allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- confusion
- dizziness
- muscle pain
- nausea, vomiting
- seizures
- swelling of the feet and legs
- unusually weak or tired
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
- bloating and stomach gas
- increased thirst
- stomach cramps
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.
To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:
- Take the medications to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
- If your cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, take the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
