Products
Sodium bicarbonate is available in pharmacies and drugstores as open goods.
Structure and properties
Sodium hydrogen carbonate (NaHCO3, Mr = 84.0 g/mol) exists as a white crystalline powder that is soluble in water. When the substance is heated, sodium carbonate (Na2CO3).
Effects
When sodium hydrogen carbonate comes into contact with acid, the gas carbon dioxide (CO2) is released:
- Sodium hydrogen carbonate (NaHCO3) + hydrochloric acid (HCl) common salt (NaCl) + water (H2O) + carbon dioxide (CO2)
When dissolved in the blood, it raises the pH and counteracts metabolic acidosis.
Fields of application (selection)
Medical indications:
- Metabolic acidosis (as infusion or enteric-coated capsules).
- For alkalinization of urine, as an antidote.
- As a diagnostic agent
- Included in laxatives (also rectal use).
Not recommended for use (decomposition in acid stomach):
- Acid regurgitation, stomach burning
- As a base salt in base mixtures.
For food:
- As a leavening agent for baking
- Is added to the fondue to make it creamy
- As a food additive
Pharmaceutical excipient:
- In effervescent tablets and powders, as a disintegrant and acidity regulator.
Technical applications
Contraindications
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Raising the pH in the stomach may affect absorption of active ingredients. Alkalinization of the urine may alter elimination. Acidic drugs are eliminated more rapidly, and basic drugs are eliminated more slowly.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating and abdominal pain. Prolonged use may promote the formation of kidney stones. Other possible side effects include hypernatremia, hypokalemia and alkalosis. Sodium bicarbonate is no longer recommended as an antacid because it relieves discomfort only for a short time, releases a lot of carbon dioxide in the stomach, and the acid is subsequently secreted again.
