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How to Take Sodium Bicarbonate

Key Takeaways

  • Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) can be used as an over-the-counter antacid for short-term relief of heartburn and acid indigestion.
  • It should be taken carefully, in small amounts, and mixed or taken with water to help avoid side effects.
  • People with kidney disease, high blood pressure, heart failure, or a sodium-restricted diet should avoid using sodium bicarbonate unless advised by a healthcare provider.
  • Frequent or long-term use increases the risk of serious side effects and drug interactions.
  • Always seek medical advice if symptoms persist or if you are unsure how to take it safely.

What Is Sodium Bicarbonate?

Sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda or sodium bicarbonate powder, is an alkaline compound that neutralizes stomach acid. Because of this effect, it has been used as an antacid to relieve heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach.

Sodium bicarbonate is available over the counter in powder form and as sodium bicarbonate tablets. It is also used in medical settings for specific conditions, but use at home should be limited and cautious.

What Sodium Bicarbonate Is Used For

The most common non-medical use of sodium bicarbonate is short-term relief of excess stomach acid. Raising stomach pH temporarily reduces acidity and can ease reflux symptoms.

Common uses include:

  • Occasional heartburn
  • Acid indigestion
  • Mild upset stomach

How to Take Sodium Bicarbonate Safely

Using sodium bicarbonate powder

To take sodium bicarbonate as an antacid:

  1. Measure a small amount of baking soda, typically ½ teaspoon or less.
  2. Dissolve it completely in a full glass of water.
  3. Drink the solution slowly.

Never swallow dry baking soda or take it without water. Always allow it to fully dissolve to reduce stomach irritation.

Sodium bicarbonate tablets

Some people use sodium bicarbonate tablets instead of powder. Follow the drug information on the label carefully, including dose instructions and timing.

Tablets should also be taken with water and swallowed whole.

How Often Can You Take Sodium Bicarbonate?

Sodium bicarbonate should be used only occasionally. It is not meant for repeated daily use.

General guidance includes:

  • Do not take more than recommended on the label
  • Avoid using it for more than a few days in a row
  • Do not take multiple doses close together

If symptoms return quickly or require frequent dosing, call your healthcare provider to find the underlying cause.

Missed Dos

Sodium bicarbonate is usually taken as needed, not on a fixed schedule. If your provider has told you to take sodium bicarbonate on a certain schedule, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take extra amounts to compensate for a previous dose. Taking too much increases the risk of side effects.

Possible Side Effects

Even when taken correctly, sodium bicarbonate can cause side effects.

Common side effects of sodium bicarbonate include:

  • Bloating
  • Gas
  • Stomach cramps
  • Upset stomach
  • Loss of appetite

These occur because sodium bicarbonate reacts with stomach acid to produce carbon dioxide gas.

Serious Side Effects and When to Seek Help

Serious side effects are more likely with large amounts or frequent use.

These may include:

  • High blood pressure due to excess sodium
  • Fluid retention
  • Worsening heart failure
  • Metabolic alkalosis (dangerous alkalinization of the blood)
  • Worsening kidney disease
  • Severe allergic reaction

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience severe weakness, confusion, persistent vomiting, irregular heartbeat, or swelling.

For suspected overdose or severe reactions, contact a poison control center right away.

Who Should Not Take Sodium Bicarbonate

Avoid using sodium bicarbonate unless directed by your provider if you have:

  • Kidney disease
  • Liver disease
  • Heart failure
  • High blood pressure
  • A sodium-restricted diet
  • A history of electrolyte imbalances

Children and pediatric patients should only use sodium bicarbonate if specifically instructed by their healthcare provider.

Drug Interactions to Be Aware Of

Sodium bicarbonate can interfere with how other drugs are absorbed or processed.

Potential drug interactions include:

  • Ketoconazole
  • Itraconazole
  • Salicylates
  • Calcium-containing supplements

Because sodium bicarbonate alters stomach acidity, it may reduce the effectiveness of some medications. Always review supplements, OTC medications, and prescription drugs with a healthcare provider.

Storage and Safety Tips

  • Store sodium bicarbonate at room temperature
  • Keep it tightly sealed
  • Keep it out of the reach of children
  • Do not use expired products

Avoid confusing baking soda with baking powder, which contains additional ingredients.

Sodium Bicarbonate vs Other Antacids

Modern OTC antacids are often safer for repeated use. Compared to sodium bicarbonate:

  • Calcium-based antacids provide longer relief
  • Magnesium-based options may cause less bloating
  • Sodium bicarbonate contains a high sodium load

A healthcare provider can recommend alternatives if heartburn is frequent.

When to Talk to a Healthcare Provider

Contact a healthcare provider or health care professional if:

  • Heartburn occurs more than twice a week
  • Symptoms do not improve
  • You have underlying medical conditions
  • You are considering sodium bicarbonate supplements regularly

Persistent symptoms may indicate a condition that needs proper treatment.

Bottom Line

Sodium bicarbonate can be taken safely in small, occasional doses to relieve heartburn or acid indigestion, but it is easy to misuse. Always dissolve it in water or take it with a glass of water. Avoid large amounts and do not use it long-term. People with kidney disease, heart failure, or high blood pressure should avoid it unless advised otherwise. When in doubt, seek medical advice and consider safer over-the-counter alternatives.

FAQs

How do you take sodium bicarbonate for heartburn?
Dissolve the powder in water and drink slowly. If you are taking sodium bicarbonate tablets, take them with a full glass of water.

Can you take sodium bicarbonate every day?
No, you should not take sodium bicarbonate daily unless instructed by your doctor. Daily use increases the risk of serious side effects.

Is baking soda the same as sodium bicarbonate?
Yes. Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate.

What should I do if I take too much?
Seek medical attention or contact a poison control center immediately.

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