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Oral Bicarbonate

Specialist initiation (S1)

SODIUM BICARBONATE

  • Chronic acidotic states

POTASSIUM BICARBONATE

  • Hyperchloraemic acidosis

Prescribing Notes:

  • Sodium bicarbonate is used for chronic acidotic states such as uraemic acidosis or renal tubular acidosis. It should be avoided in respiratory acidosis. The response is unpredictable and must be assessed.
  • Potassium bicarbonate is used for hyperchloraemic acidosis associated with K+ deficiency, e.g. renal tubular and gastro–intestinal disorders.

NHSL Joint Adult Formulary Key

To indicate the category of a formulary medicine, updated sections adopt the following key:

Preferred list (P): First-line formulary choices.

Total list (T): Alternative choices when preferred list options not effective/not tolerated, or not indicated.

Specialist initiation (S1): Specialist initiation, or on the advice of a Consultant or Specialist Practitioner in this therapeutic area. Continuation in primary care is acceptable.

Specialist use only (S2): Supply via hospital, Homecare Service or a hospital based prescription (HBP) for dispensing by community pharmacy. Not prescribed in primary care setting.

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 31/01/2022

Next review date: 31/01/2025

Author(s): NHSL.

Version: Please refer to the introduction section for an explanation of the review dates above.

Approved By: ADTC

Reviewer name(s): ADTC.