Sodium Bicarbonate

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

Last Reviewed: Nov 17, 2023

Drug Details


Generic Name:

Sodium bicarbonate

Common Brands:

Alka-Seltzer Heartburn Relief (contains anhydrous citric acid and sodium bicarbonate), Zegerid (contains omeprazole and sodium bicarbonate)

Availability:

Over-the-counter

Therapeutic Class:

Antacid

Forms:

Tablet, powder, injection solution

Administration:

By mouth, by intravenous injection

Therapeutic Uses:

  • Oral forms of sodium bicarbonate (powder and tablets) are used to treat indigestion, heartburn, sour stomach, and upset stomach 
  • Sodium bicarbonate is used to make urine more alkaline and less acidic
  • Sodium bicarbonate injection is used to treat metabolic acidosis associated with certain medical conditions

Controlled Status:

Not a controlled substance


Sodium Bicarbonate Drug Class

Sodium bicarbonate (soe-dee-um bye-kar-boh-nate) is an antacid and a urine and blood alkalizer.

Sodium Bicarbonate Age Range

Oral sodium bicarbonate is for adults and children 6 years of age and older. Antacids should not be given to children younger than 6 years unless prescribed by a healthcare provider.