Therapeutic use of alkalinising agents

Abstract

Sodium bicarbonate, sodium citrate and potassium citrate cause alkalinisation of the urine. They may be given to relieve urinary discomfort in mild urinary tract infections, and to prevent the development of uric acid renal calculi in the initial stages of uricosuric therapy for hyperuricaemia. Sodium bicarbonate is also used parenterally to correct metabolic acidosis, and orally, as an antacid. This article provides a brief review of the therapeutic role of alkalinising agents for alkalinisation of the urine and for neutralisation of acid secretions in the gastrointestinal tract.