Sodium Bicarbonate

Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) is used as an antacid for short-term relief of stomach upset, to correct acidosis in kidney disorders, to make the urine alkaline during bladder infections, and to minimize uric acid crystallization during gout treatment. A prescription sodium bicarbonate product is given by injection to treat metabolic acidosis and some drug intoxications. Sodium bicarbonate is available as a nonprescription drug alone (sodium bicarbonate tablets) or in combination with other nonprescription drugs for short-term treatment of various conditions to treat fever and mild to moderate pain.

Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
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May be Beneficial: Depletion or interference—The medication may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the nutrient. Taking these nutrients may help replenish them.	Folic acid Iron*
Side effect reduction/prevention	None known
Supportive interaction	None known
Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability	None known
Adverse interaction	None known

Interactions with Dietary Supplements

Folic acid
Folic acid is needed by the body to utilize vitamin B12. Antacids, including sodium bicarbonate, inhibit folic acid absorption.¹ People taking antacids are advised to supplement with folic acid.

Iron
In a study of nine healthy people, sodium bicarbonate administered with 10 mg of iron led to lower iron levels compared to iron administered alone.² This interaction may be avoided by taking sodium bicarbonate-containing products two hours before or after iron-containing supplements.

References

1. Russell RM, Golner BB, Krasinski SD, et al. Effect of antacid and H2 receptor antagonists on the intestinal absorption of folic acid. J Lab Clin Med 1988;112:458–63.

2. O’Neil-Cutting MA, Crosby WH. The effect of antacids on the absorption of simultaneously ingested iron. JAMA 1986;255:1468–70.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires July 2004.