Sodium Bicarbonate



BrioschiŪ[OTC]; NeutŪ







Sodium Bicarbonate

(SOW dee um bye KAR bun ate)

U.S. Brand Names
BrioschiŪ[OTC]; NeutŪ
Pharmacologic Category
Alkalinizing Agent; Antacid; Electrolyte Supplement, Oral; Electrolyte Supplement, Parenteral
Reasons not to take this medicine
  • If you have an allergy to sodium bicarbonate or any other part of this medicine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
  • If you have any of the following conditions: High bicarbonate levels, high sodium levels, low calcium levels, unexplained belly pain, or water in the lungs.
What is this medicine used for?
  • This medicine is used to treat heartburn and indigestion.
  • This medicine is used to treat high acid levels in the blood.
  • This medicine is used to lower acid levels in the urine.
  • This medicine is used to treat high potassium levels.
How does it work?
  • Sodium bicarbonate reduces stomach acid.
  • It decreases acid in the blood and urine.
  • It decreases potassium levels in the body.
How is it best taken?
  • Oral:
  • Take this medicine 1 to 3 hours after meals as antacid.
  • Mix effervescent granules and powder with a full glass of water and drink.
  • Injection:
  • This medicine is given into a vein.
What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)
  • Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
  • If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
  • Do not take a double dose or extra doses.
  • Many times this medicine is taken on an as needed basis.
What are the precautions when taking this medicine?
  • If you have kidney disease, talk with healthcare provider.
  • If you have liver disease, talk with healthcare provider.
  • If you have a weakened heart, talk with healthcare provider.
  • If you are on a low-salt diet (contains salt), talk with healthcare provider.
  • Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.
  • Do not take iron within 2 hours of this medicine.
  • Do not take this medicine for longer than 2 weeks, unless directed by healthcare provider.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.
What are some possible side effects of this medicine?
  • Belly pain.
  • Bloating.
  • Gas.
  • Increased thirst.
  • Low potassium level. Signs include feeling tired, weak, numbness, or tingling; muscle cramps; constipation; vomiting; or fast heartbeat.
What should I monitor?
  • Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?
  • Follow up with healthcare provider.
Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately
  • If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center immediately or dial 911.
  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Signs of low potassium.
  • Difficulty breathing.
  • Significant change in thinking clearly and logically.
  • Swelling.
  • Any rash.
  • No improvement in condition or feeling worse.
How should I store this medicine?
  • Oral:
  • Store at room temperature.
  • Protect from moisture. Do not store in a bathroom or kitchen.
  • Injection:
  • This medicine will be given to you in a healthcare setting. You will not store it at home.
General statements
  • If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.
  • Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
  • Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.
Brand Names: