Baking soda, called as sodium bicarbonate, is a white crystalline compound. This amazing substance serves countless purposes - from putting out small grease fires to helping bread rise. You'll find it in almost every kitchen and emergency kit. The compound's medical applications are just as impressive. Doctors use sodium bicarbonate to treat metabolic acidosis linked to severe renal disease, uncontrolled diabetes, and circulatory problems from shock or dehydration. While many know it as a remedy for heartburn and acid indigestion its benefits reach far beyond the reach and influence of digestive issues. This article explains what sodium bicarbonate is, its uses, proper dosage, complications and safety measures.

How Does Sodium Bicarbonate Work?

Sodium bicarbonate acts as a buffer to balance pH levels. Your body uses it to neutralise excess acid by providing bicarbonate that fights acidosis. The compound reacts with hydrogen ions to form carbonic acid, which breaks down into water & carbon dioxide. This reaction uses up hydrogen ions that raises serum pH and helps curb acidosis.

Uses of Sodium Bicarbonate

Sodium bicarbonate has many uses in a variety of fields:

• Medical Applications

  • Helps with metabolic acidosis from bad kidney disease or uncontrolled diabetes

  • Stops heartburn and acid indigestion by neutralising stomach acid

  • Helps with drug toxicity, including barbiturate and salicylate poisoning

  • Boosts athletic performance as a sports supplement

• Household Uses

  • Makes bread rise during baking

  • Puts out small grease fires

  • Gets rid of odours in refrigerators

  • Works as a mild cleaning agent

How & When to Take Sodium Bicarbonate?

• Adults who have digestive issues like heartburn can take 325mg to 2g by mouth one to four times daily. 

• You should mix powdered forms really well in at least 120ml (4 ounces) of water before taking them. 

• You can swallow tablets whole or dissolve them in water, based on what the product label says.

• Doctors give it through an IV for medical conditions like acidosis. They adjust the amount based on what you need. 

What Are the Side Effects of Sodium Bicarbonate?

Sodium bicarbonate is safe for short-term use. Common complications are: 

• Feel more thirsty

• Stomach cramps,

• Gas

Serious side effects:

• Having to pee often

• Headaches that won't go away

• No appetite for a long time

• Changes in thinking or confusion

• Muscle pain or twitching

• Breathing slowly

• Swelling in your legs and feet

Taking too much can lead to metabolic alkalosis, hypernatremia, or hypochloremia, especially if you take it quickly or for too long.

Can I Take Sodium Bicarbonate Daily?

Most people shouldn't keep taking sodium bicarbonate for more than two weeks unless their doctor says it's okay. Using it for too long may cause side effects and might disrupt your body's natural acid-base balance. 

What Precautions Are to Be Taken While Using Sodium Bicarbonate?

• Take sodium bicarbonate at least 1-2 hours apart from other medicines to avoid interference with their effectiveness. 

• People on sodium-restricted diets should be extra careful because this compound has high sodium content. 

• Medical supervision is needed when using it beyond 2 weeks.

• This medicine should not be used by patients with metabolic alkalosis, hypocalcemia, or those experiencing excessive chloride loss from vomiting. 

• Patients with heart failure, liver disease, renal impairment, or hypertension need extra caution. 

• Pregnant women should avoid sodium bicarbonate as it might increase water retention.

What If I Missed a Dose?

Take the missed dose when you remember it. Skip the missed dose if it's almost time for your next scheduled one. Never take extra doses to make up for forgotten ones.

What If I Overdose?

Sodium bicarbonate overdose can cause serious complications. Watch out for these symptoms including but not limited to:

• Constipation

• Convulsions

• Diarrhoea

• Frequent urination

• Irritability

• Muscle spasms

• Weakness

• Vomiting

Immediately contact your doctor if an overdose happens.

Drug Interactions

Sodium bicarbonate affects many drugs. Key interactions include: 

• Antifungals like itraconazole and ketoconazole.

• Aspirin and salicylates

• Certain antibiotics like tetracyclines

• Corticosteroids

• Digoxin

• Dobutamine hydrochloride

• Iron supplements

• Levothyroxine

• Lithium

Dosage for Sodium Bicarbonate

For heartburn relief:

Adults - 325mg to 2g orally 1-4 times daily (not exceeding 19.5g daily)

Children between 6-12 years - 520mg (can be repeated after 30 minutes if needed)

Adults receiving treatment for metabolic acidosis get 2-5 mEq/kg intravenously over 4-8 hours.

Sodium Bicarbonate vs Antacids 

Feature	Sodium Bicarbonate	Other Antacids
Action	Fast but short-acting	Typically longer-acting
Sodium Content	High	Usually lower
Safety in Pregnancy	Not recommended	Some are safe (calcium/magnesium-based)
Potency	Completely neutralises acid	Variable potency
Side Effects	Possible alkalosis, sodium overload	Varies by composition

FAQs

1. What is Sodium Bicarbonate used for?

   Sodium bicarbonate is used for:

   • Metabolic acidosis

   • Heartburn

   • Urinary tract infections and stomach ulcers

   • Athletic performance boost

   • Urine alkalisation for certain medical treatments

2. How does Sodium Bicarbonate work in the body?

   The compound balances pH levels by neutralising excess acid and eases discomfort from indigestion.

3. What is the usual dosage of Sodium Bicarbonate for adults and children?

   Adults typically take 325mg to 2g doses 1-4 times daily. 

   Children between 6-12 years can take 520mg, with another dose possible after 30 minutes if needed. 

4. Can Sodium Bicarbonate be used to relieve heartburn or acidity?

   Yes! Sodium bicarbonate works quickly to neutralise stomach acid and stop heartburn. Adults can mix 0.5-1 teaspoon in water to ease acid reflux symptoms.

5. What are the common side effects of Sodium Bicarbonate?

   Common reactions include:

   • Gas and bloating

   • Stomach cramps

   • Increased thirst

   Serious side effects include headache, muscle pain, slow breathing, and frequent urination.

6. Is Sodium Bicarbonate safe for long-term use?

   Medical supervision becomes necessary if you plan to take sodium bicarbonate for more than 2 weeks. The risks of alkalosis, sodium retention, and electrolyte imbalances increase with extended use. 

7. Can Sodium Bicarbonate interact with other medications?

   The answer is yes. Many medications become less effective because sodium bicarbonate changes the gastric pH. These include:

   • Certain antibiotics like tetracyclines (need a 2-hour separation)

   • HIV medications such as atazanavir

   • Heart medications and antihypertensives

8. Is Sodium Bicarbonate safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

   Pregnant women should avoid oral sodium bicarbonate due to risks of fluid retention from sodium. Studies indicate minimal risk to infants during breastfeeding.

9. What precautions should be taken while using Sodium Bicarbonate?

   You should separate sodium bicarbonate intake from other medicines by at least 2 hours. People with heart failure, kidney problems, or sodium-restricted diets need extra caution.

10. How long does it take for Sodium Bicarbonate to start working?

    Heartburn relief appears within minutes. When given intravenously, sodium bicarbonate acts quickly and lasts 8-10 minutes.