Citric acid

Oral
Alkaliniser agent

Patients on a sodium-restricted diet. Severe renal impairment. Potassium citrate and citric acid oral solution are contraindicated in patients with adynamia episodica hereditaria, acute dehydration, heat cramps, anuria, severe myocardial damage, or hyperkalaemia.

Monitor electrolyte balance and acid-base balance regularly especially in patients with renal disorders. Patients with low urine output, congestive heart failure, hypertension, renal dysfunction, peripheral or pulmonary oedema, or toxaemia of pregnancy. Preparations containing potassium should be used with extreme caution in patients in whom large amount of potassium may have a detrimental effect.

Frequent administration or intake of large quantities may cause teeth erosion and have a local irritant effect.

Oral doses of citrate may increase intestinal absorption of aluminium ions.

Description:
Mechanism of Action: Citrate salts are alkalinisers. They are commonly used in situations where long-term maintenance of an alkaline urine is necessary and in the management of chronic metabolic acidosis. Citric acid is also used in effervescing mixtures and as a synergist to improve the efficacy of antioxidants. It may also be used in preparations that are used in the treatment of dry mouth and to dissolve renal calculi and prevent encrustation of urinary catheters.
Pharmacokinetics:
Metabolism: Citrate salts are largely metabolised.
Excretion: <5% of an oral dose is excreted unchanged in the urine.

Supplements & Adjuvant Therapy