What Is Sodium Bicarbonate
Sodium bicarbonate also is known as baking soda.
Sodium bicarbonate is used to treat or prevent excess acid in the blood or urine, a condition affecting some children who have had a liver transplant. It also can reduce stomach acids, and therefore can be used as an antacid to treat heartburn or indigestion.
Sodium Bicarbonate Dosage
Sodium bicarbonate can be injected or taken by mouth. It is available as a solution for injection, in powder form, or as tablets.
How to Properly Take Sodium Bicarbonate
Sodium bicarbonate can be taken with or without food. People who are using this medication should avoid large amounts of dairy products, which can increase the chance of experiencing side effects.
Missed Doses
If your child misses a dose of sodium bicarbonate, it should be taken as soon as you or your child remembers. If you remember within two hours of the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your child’s usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Sodium Bicarbonate Side Effects
Sodium bicarbonate side effects include: gas, bloating, and stomach cramps. Some people report headaches or nausea, and may feel irritable.
Rare side effects of sodium bicarbonate include:
- Muscle rigidity
- Weakness
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Slow reflexes
- Confusion
- Nervousness
- Swelling of the feet or ankles
- Increased thirst or urge to urinate
If your child has trouble with any of these side effects, inform your transplant doctor or transplant coordinator.
Sodium Bicarbonate Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any prescription or over-the-counter medication your child is taking, so you can be warned of undesirable interactions and prevent them.
Precautions for Children
Do not take sodium bicarbonate within two hours of taking tacrolimus (Prograf, FK506®). Watch your child’s salt intake, since this medication has high sodium content.
Sodium Bicarbonate Availability
Sodium bicarbonate is readily available at most pharmacies.
