CITRIC ACID/SODIUM CITRATE - ORAL

CITRIC ACID/SODIUM CITRATE - ORAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (SIT-rik AS-id/SOE-dee-um SI-trate)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Bicitra, Cytra-2, Oracit, Shohl's

GENERIC NAME(S): citric acid/sodium citrate

Uses

USES: This medication is used to make the urine less acidic. Urine that is less acidic helps the kidneys get rid of uric acid, helping to prevent gout and certain types of kidney stones (urate). This medication can also prevent and treat certain metabolic problems (acidosis) caused by kidney disease. Citric acid and citrate salts (which contain potassium and sodium) belong to a class of drugs known as urinary alkalinizers. Because some conditions require you to limit your intake of potassium and sodium, your doctor's choice of product may depend on how much potassium and sodium you can take.


How to use CITRIC ACID/SODIUM CITRATE - ORAL

HOW TO USE: Shake the container well before each dose. Take this medication by mouth, usually 4 times a day or as directed by your doctor. To help prevent diarrhea and stomach upset, take each dose after a meal, and mix your prescribed dose of medication in a full glass (4 to 8 ounces or 120 to 240 milliliters) of cold water or juice just before taking, or take as directed by your doctor. Drink the entire mixture slowly. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for further instructions. The liquid form of this medication must be mixed with at least 4 ounces (120 milliliters) of water or juice before taking. Refrigerating the mixture before drinking may improve the taste. Drink more water or juice after taking this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Take this medication as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take this more often without your doctor's approval. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. While taking this medication, you may need to test the pH (acidity) of your urine using special paper. The pH will help determine the proper dose. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain may occur. Mixing the medication with water or juice, taking it after meals, and drinking more fluids will help prevent these side effects. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: swelling of the hands/ankles/feet, tingling/numbness of the hands/feet, weakness. Tell your doctor right away if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion, restlessness), muscle spasms, seizures. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: severe kidney disease (e.g., unable to make urine), sodium-restricted diet, high sodium levels. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: a certain breathing problem (pulmonary edema), low calcium levels, high blood pressure, heart problems (e.g., irregular heartbeat, heart failure), kidney disease, swollen ankles/legs/feet due to retaining water (peripheral edema). Liquid forms of this product may contain sugar. Caution is advised if you have diabetes. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely. Because this medication contains salt (sodium), tell your doctor if you are on a salt-restricted diet. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. This medication may worsen high blood pressure during pregnancy (toxemia of pregnancy). Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first. This drug should not be used with the following medications because very serious interactions may occur: antacids that contain aluminum. If you are currently using any of these medications listed above, tell your doctor or pharmacist before starting this medication. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: aspirin and other salicylates (e.g., salsalate), lithium, quinidine. If your doctor has directed you to take low-dose aspirin for heart attack or stroke prevention (usually at dosages of 81-325 milligrams a day), you should continue taking it unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. This document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: muscle spasms, seizures.

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Faq for CITRIC ACID/SODIUM CITRATE - ORAL

Citric acid/sodium citrate is a medication that contains a combination of citric acid and sodium citrate. It is used to treat certain conditions, such as kidney stones or urinary tract infections, by making the urine less acidic.

Citric acid/sodium citrate works by increasing the pH of urine, making it less acidic. This helps to dissolve certain types of kidney stones and prevent the formation of new stones. It can also help to treat urinary tract infections by creating an environment where bacteria cannot thrive.

Citric acid/sodium citrate is usually taken orally, as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. It is typically taken with meals or as directed, and can be mixed with water or other liquids if desired. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided and not exceed the recommended dose.

Some common side effects of citric acid/sodium citrate include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and increased urination. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. However, if you experience severe or persistent side effects, it is important to seek medical attention.

Yes, there are some precautions and warnings to be aware of. Citric acid/sodium citrate should be used with caution in individuals with kidney problems, heart problems, high blood pressure, or edema. It should also be used with caution in individuals on a low-sodium diet. It is important to discuss any existing medical conditions or medications with your doctor before taking this medication.

It is always recommended to consult with your doctor before taking any medication while pregnant or breastfeeding. They can evaluate your specific situation and determine if citric acid/sodium citrate is safe for you and your baby.

Citric acid/sodium citrate can potentially interact with certain medications, including diuretics, lithium, and certain blood pressure medications. It is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist of all the medications you are taking to avoid any potential interactions.

The time it takes for citric acid/sodium citrate to start working can vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated. It is important to follow the recommended dosing schedule and continue taking the medication as directed by your doctor, even if you do not immediately notice improvement.

It is important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve. Stopping the medication prematurely may allow the condition to return or worsen. If you have any concerns about stopping the medication, it is best to consult with your doctor.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.