Disodium Hydrogen Citrate

Disodium Hydrogen Citrate is a urinary alkalinizing agent commonly prescribed to manage conditions associated with acidic urine. Increasing the pH of urine aids in the prevention and treatment of various urinary tract disorders. This medication is widely available in India in syrup form.

It works by being metabolized to bicarbonate, which increases urinary bicarbonate excretion. This reduces the formation of certain crystals, like uric acid and amino acids, helping prevent kidney stones. It also eases symptoms of gout and urinary tract problems by keeping urine pH balanced and reducing irritation.

Uses of Disodium Hydrogen Citrate

• Kidney Stones: Increases urine pH, helping dissolve uric acid and cysteine stones, prevents new stone formation, reduces recurrence risk, and improves overall urinary tract health by maintaining less acidic urine.

• Gout: Alkalinizes urine to reduce uric acid crystallization, preventing painful gout attacks, lowering hyperuricemia, and supporting proper uric acid elimination, thereby protecting joints and minimizing inflammation over time.

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Neutralizes acidic urine, relieving burning, stinging, and discomfort during urination caused by infection, improving overall urinary comfort, and supporting the body’s natural recovery from bacterial invasion.

• Renal Tubular Acidosis: Corrects metabolic acidosis by increasing systemic bicarbonate levels, restoring normal blood pH, preventing kidney-related complications, supporting electrolyte balance, and improving metabolic and renal function over time.

• Painful Urination (Dysuria): Reduces irritation and pain caused by acidic urine, alleviating discomfort during urination, protecting urinary tract mucosa, and enhancing overall urinary comfort while preventing further inflammation.

• Cystinuria: Increases urine pH to prevent cysteine stone formation, reducing the risk of kidney stone development, promoting safe excretion of cystine, and maintaining urinary tract health over the long term.

• Metabolic Alkalosis: Provides additional bicarbonate to restore acid-base balance in the body, correcting metabolic alkalosis, supporting proper cellular function, and preventing complications from prolonged elevated blood pH.

• Hyperuricemia: Alkalinizes urine to lower uric acid concentration, preventing crystallization, reducing the risk of kidney stones and gout attacks, and maintaining healthy uric acid metabolism.

• Post-Surgical Recovery: Helps maintain urinary pH after surgery, supporting tissue healing, preventing urinary complications, reducing discomfort, and promoting overall recovery by optimizing the urinary environment.

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Supports kidney function by correcting acid-base imbalances, alkalinizing urine, reducing metabolic stress on renal tissue, and slowing progression of chronic kidney disease complications.

Available Forms & Strengths in India

Strength may vary as per manufacturer. Read the label carefully and consult a doctor before use.

How Disodium Hydrogen Citrate Works

Disodium Hydrogen Citrate works by neutralizing the acidity in the urine, making it more alkaline. This helps to dissolve uric acid crystals and prevents the formation of kidney stones. It also enhances the solubility of certain minerals, making it easier for the body to eliminate them through urine without forming stones.

Benefits of Disodium Hydrogen Citrate

• Prevents the formation of acidic urinary stones, especially uric acid stones.
• Alkalinizes the urine, which helps manage conditions like cystinuria and gout.
• Reduces the risk of pain and discomfort caused by acidic urine.
• Helps in treating kidney stones and associated urinary issues.

How to Take Disodium Hydrogen Citrate

Disodium Hydrogen Citrate is typically taken in the form of tablets or solution, depending on the doctor` s recommendation. It should be taken with water to prevent irritation of the stomach and ensure effective absorption. The dosage depends on the severity of the condition, and it is usually taken after meals to minimize stomach upset. Follow your healthcare provider` s instructions for the exact dosage and duration of treatment. Never adjust your dosage without consulting your doctor.

Side Effects of Disodium Hydrogen Citrate

• Diarrhea

• Nausea and vomiting

• Stomach cramps

• Increased frequency of urination

• Tiredness or fatigue

• Unpleasant taste

• Flatulence

• Mood changes

Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use only if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor.

• Kidney Impairment: Not recommended for individuals with severe kidney disease.

• Electrolyte Imbalances: Use with caution in patients with conditions like hyperkalemia or hypocalcemia.

• Dehydration: Ensure adequate hydration while using this medication.

• Drug Interactions: Avoid combining with other medicines without medical supervision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is Disodium Hydrogen Citrate used for?
A: It treats kidney stones, gout, urinary tract infections, and renal tubular acidosis by alkalinizing urine, reducing acidity, and helping dissolve or prevent uric acid and cysteine crystal formation.

Q: How does Disodium Hydrogen Citrate work?
A: It raises urine pH, making it less acidic. This helps dissolve uric acid and cysteine crystals and prevents the formation of kidney stones.

Q: How should I take Disodium Hydrogen Citrate?
A: Take as prescribed, usually after meals. Dilute in a glass of water or juice, following your healthcare provider’s instructions to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Q: Are there any side effects?
A: Possible side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and increased urination. Persistent symptoms should be reported to your doctor for advice or treatment adjustments.

Q: Can I take this medication during pregnancy?
A: Avoid unless prescribed. Only a doctor should recommend Disodium Hydrogen Citrate during pregnancy due to potential risks to the mother or developing fetus.

Q: Is Disodium Hydrogen Citrate safe to use?
A: It is generally safe to use in a prescribed amount for most adults. Consult a doctor for children, pregnant women, or those with kidney or heart conditions to ensure safety.

Q: Can I drink alcohol while taking this medication?
A: Alcohol should be avoided during treatment, as it may interfere with the medication’s effectiveness and increase side effect risks.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?
A: Take the missed dose as soon as remembered, unless it’s nearly time for the next dose. Never double the dose.

Q: Can I stop taking the medication once I feel better?
A: Do not stop without consulting your doctor. Symptoms may return, and continuing the full course ensures the condition is effectively treated.

Q: Is Disodium Hydrogen Citrate habit-forming?
A: No, it is not addictive or habit-forming. It can be safely used as prescribed without risk of dependency.