Sodium Bicarbonate + Citric Acid + Sodium Carbonate

Generic Details

Generic Name

Sodium Bicarbonate-Citric Acid-Sodium Carbonate

Other Names

  • Alka-Seltzer
  • Alka-Seltzer Gold
  • E-Z-Gas II

Drug Class

  • Antacid
  • Antacid with Analgesic

Chemical Formula

NaHCO3-C6H8O7-Na2CO3

Molecular Weight

84.006 g/mol-192.12 g/mol-105.99 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Sodium bicarbonate acts as an antacid by neutralizing stomach acid
  • Citric acid enhances the buffering effect of sodium bicarbonate
  • Sodium carbonate further aids in neutralizing excess stomach acid

Indications

  • Heartburn
  • Acid indigestion
  • Upset stomach

Common Dosage Forms

  • Effervescent tablets

Typical Dosage

  • 1-2 tablets dissolved in water every 4 hours as needed

Pediatric Dosage

  • Consult a healthcare provider for appropriate dosing in children

Geriatric Dosage

  • Lower doses may be required in the elderly population due to decreased renal function

Side Effects

  • Gas
  • Belching
  • Mild stomach discomfort

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to any component of the product
  • Severe renal impairment

Pregnancy Category

  • Category C - Consult a physician before use during pregnancy

Lactation Safety

  • Generally considered safe during breastfeeding when used as directed

Drug Interactions

  • May interact with certain antibiotics and medications for osteoporosis - consult healthcare provider

Overdose Symptoms

  • Severe vomiting
  • Seizures
  • Difficulty breathing

Antidote for Overdose

  • Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; no specific antidote

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Rapidly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract
  • Distribution: Distributed throughout the body
  • Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
  • Excretion: Excreted in the urine

Precautions

  • Do not exceed recommended doses
  • Avoid use in patients with edema or high blood pressure

Warnings

  • May contain high amounts of sodium - caution in patients with heart conditions or hypertension

Others

  • Avoid taking other medications within 1-2 hours of taking this product