Saccharin Sodium

Generic Details

Generic Name

Saccharin Sodium

Other Names

  • Sweet'N Low
  • Sweet Twin
  • Necta Sweet

Drug Class

  • Artificial Sweetener

Chemical Formula

C7H4O3NSNa

Molecular Weight

205.18 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Acts as a non-nutritive sweetener by stimulating the sweet taste receptors on the taste buds.

Indications

  • Used as a sugar substitute for individuals with diabetes or those looking to reduce calorie intake.

Common Dosage Forms

  • Tablets
  • Powder

Typical Dosage

  • Individualized based on sweetness preference and dietary needs

Pediatric Dosage

  • Consult pediatrician for appropriate dosage

Geriatric Dosage

  • No specific dosage adjustments needed

Side Effects

  • May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
  • Metallic aftertaste
  • Diarrhea if consumed in large quantities

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to saccharin sodium

Pregnancy Category

  • Category C - Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks

Lactation Safety

  • Considered safe in moderation while breastfeeding

Drug Interactions

  • No significant drug interactions reported

Overdose Symptoms

  • N/A - Unlikely due to low toxicity levels

Antidote for Overdose

  • N/A

Storage Conditions

  • Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and heat

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Not significantly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract
  • Distribution: N/A
  • Metabolism: Not metabolized in the body
  • Excretion: Excreted unchanged in the urine

Precautions

  • Limit intake in individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) due to the presence of phenylalanine in some formulations.

Warnings

  • Not to be used as a sole source of nutrition or in high quantities

Others

  • Saccharin sodium is about 300-400 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar)