Sodium bicarbonate

Sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, is a salt consisting of a sodium cation (Na+) and a bicarbonate anion (HCO3-). Sodium bicarbonate is a white crystalline solid. It has a slightly salty, alkaline taste.

Application and indications

Sodium bicarbonate is used for treatment of metabolic acidosis which may occur in severe renal disease, uncontrolled diabetes, circulatory failure due to shock or severe dehydration, extracorporeal circulation, cardiac arrest, and severe primary lactic acidosis. In addition, sodium bicarbonate is indicated for severe diarrhea, which is often associated with significant electrolyte loss. It is also used to treat certain drug intoxications, including barbiturate poisoning, salicylate poisoning and methanol poisoning.

History

The word "sodium bicarbonate" originated in ancient Egypt, where a mixture of sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate was used for mummification. French chemist Nicolas Leblanc first produced sodium carbonate in 1791. The German pharmacist Valentin Rose is credited with the discovery of sodium bicarbonate in 1801. From the middle of the 19th century, sodium bicarbonate was produced industrially and marketed for use as baking powder.

Pharmacodynamics and mechanism of action

Sodium bicarbonate is an alkalizing agent. Administered intravenously, it serves to increase the natural level of bicarbonate in the blood. This buffers the excess hydrogen ion concentration and raises the blood pH. This can reverse the symptoms acidosis. However, the cause of acidosis cannot be treated by administration of sodium bicarbonate and must be corrected to provide long-term relief of acidosis.

Sodium bicarbonate is also an alkalizing agent for urine, as it increases the excretion of free bicarbonate ions in urine, effectively raising the pH of urine. This can achieve the dissolution of uric acid stones and also achieve the excretion of various substance after poisoning or overdose (e.g.: barbiturates, methanol).

Sodium bicarbonate can be used as an antacid to neutralize stomach acid. This relieves symptoms of hyperacidity.

Side effects

Sodium bicarbonate may cause serious side effects. Administration of sodium bicarbonate should be discontinued if the following symptoms occur:

• severe stomach pain
• swelling
• rapid weight gain
• shortness of breath (even with mild exertion).

Common side effects of sodium bicarbonate may include:

• dry mouth
• increased thirst
• more urination than usual

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

It is not known if sodium bicarbonate will harm an unborn child.

It is not known if sodium bicarbonate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing child.