Sodium Bicarbonate

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Nov 17, 2023

Common Questions


Common Questions about Sodium Bicarbonate


Is baking soda the same as sodium bicarbonate?

Yes, baking soda is the same as sodium bicarbonate. It is also called bread soda or bicarbonate of soda. However, baking powder is not the same as sodium bicarbonate. Also, soda ash belongs to a group called sodium carbonates and is not sodium bicarbonate. Besides its use in cooking and medicine, sodium bicarbonate is also used in industrial chemistry and industrial processes where this dry chemical acts as a pH buffering agent.



What is sodium bicarbonate mostly used for?

Sodium bicarbonate is mostly used as an antacid. It neutralizes acid in the stomach and provides relief from heartburn, indigestion, and sour stomach symptoms.



Can I take sodium bicarbonate long-term?

No, you cannot take sodium bicarbonate long-term. It is only for temporary relief of heartburn and indigestion. You should not take this over-the-counter antacid for more than 2 weeks without a healthcare provider’s supervision.



Can I take sodium bicarbonate with other antacids?

Do not take sodium bicarbonate with other antacids without talking to your doctor. Interactions between sodium bicarbonate and other antacids may cause problems. If you don’t get relief from symptoms from sodium bicarbonate alone, call your doctor for advice.



Is sodium bicarbonate safe for children?

Sodium bicarbonate therapy is generally safe for children 6 years of age and older. Read the package label carefully for the correct dose for children. Do not give antacids to children younger than 6 years without talking to the child’s doctor.



What is the price of sodium bicarbonate without insurance?

Without insurance, sodium bicarbonate can be as high as $17.05, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $5.45 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of sodium bicarbonate with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on sodium bicarbonate—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for sodium bicarbonate. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.