Sodium Bicarbonate Tips from Pharmacists

• If you are taking sodium bicarbonate as an antacid, take it 1-2 hours after a meal.

• You should mix the dry powder with water before taking it. If you cannot swallow the sodium bicarbonate tablets whole, you can dissolve them in water. Wait for actual dissolution before you drink the mixture (make sure the tablets dissolve fully).

• Do not take sodium bicarbonate on a stomach that is overly full. This can cause stomach injury.

• If you’ve been told to restrict sodium in your diet, you should avoid sodium bicarbonate as it can act as an electrolyte replenisher of sodium.

• If you continue having heartburn symptoms 2 weeks after taking sodium bicarbonate regularly, call your doctor.