alkafresh syrup - Disodium Hydrogen Citrate (NA) medicine

Alkaliser Syrup: Complete Guide to Uses, Side Effects, and Safety

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🏭 Smart Laboratories Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 20, 2026
⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Moderate for symptomatic relief of urinary tract infections; limited for other uses.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 20, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Blood in urine or stool
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Severe headache with visual changes
  • Sudden swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output
  • Confusion or muscle twitching

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is alkafresh syrup used for?

This medicine is an alkaliser syrup containing disodium hydrogen citrate. It works by making the urine less acidic, which helps relieve burning and discomfort during urination. It is commonly used for urinary tract infections and to prevent uric acid stones.

  • Generic Name: Disodium Hydrogen Citrate
  • Manufacturer: Smart Laboratories Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 alkafresh syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एक अल्कलाइज़र सिरप है जिसमें डाइसोडियम हाइड्रोजन सिट्रेट होता है। यह मूत्र पथ के संक्रमण में जलन और दर्द को कम करने के लिए उपयोग की जाती है। यह पेशाब को कम अम्लीय बनाकर काम करती है, जिससे मूत्राशय और मूत्रमार्ग में जलन कम होती है। यह दवा मूत्र पथ के संक्रमण का इलाज नहीं करती, बल्कि लक्षणों से राहत देती है। इसका उपयोग गाउट और यूरिक एसिड की पथरी को रोकने में भी किया जा सकता है। इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना न लें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में पेट में हल्की परेशानी, जी मिचलाना और दस्त शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और कुछ समय में ठीक हो जाते हैं। कभी-कभी यह दवा शरीर में सोडियम की मात्रा बढ़ा सकती है, जिससे पैरों और टखनों में सूजन आ सकती है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन अगर आपको त्वचा पर चकत्ते, खुजली, चेहरे, होंठ या गले में सूजन, या सांस लेने में कठिनाई हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को लेने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर को बताएं यदि आपको गुर्दे की समस्या, हृदय विफलता, उच्च रक्तचाप है, या आप कम नमक वाला आहार ले रहे हैं। इस दवा में सोडियम होता है, इसलिए यह उन लोगों के लिए उपयुक्त नहीं हो सकती जिन्हें नमक कम करना है। बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के इस दवा को लंबे समय तक न लें। यदि आप गर्भवती हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं, तो डॉक्टर से परामर्श करें। इस दवा को लेते समय खूब पानी पिएं।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 alkafresh syrup Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Urinary tract infections (symptomatic relief)","description":"This medicine helps relieve burning and discomfort during urination by making the urine less acidic, thereby reducing irritation to the bladder and urethra.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Metabolic acidosis (mild)","description":"It may be used to correct mild metabolic acidosis by providing bicarbonate precursors.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Uric acid kidney stones (prevention)","description":"By alkalinising the urine, this medicine helps dissolve and prevent the formation of uric acid stones.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Gout (adjunct)","description":"It may be used as an adjunct to other treatments to help lower uric acid levels by increasing urinary excretion.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Cystitis (interstitial)","description":"Sometimes used off-label to relieve bladder pain in interstitial cystitis by reducing urine acidity.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Chemotherapy-induced cystitis","description":"May be used off-label to prevent or reduce bladder irritation from certain chemotherapy drugs.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Urinary tract infections

Also treats: Metabolic acidosis, Uric acid kidney stones, Gout

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Disodium Hydrogen Citrate
Brand NameAlkasol Oral Solution
ManufacturerSmart Laboratories Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassUROLOGY
Action ClassUricosuric agent-gout
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep the bottle tightly closed.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine after meals and at bedtime to reduce stomach upset.
2
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush your urinary system.
3
Do not take aluminium-containing antacids within 2 hours of this medicine.
4
If you have heart or kidney disease, use this medicine only under medical supervision.
5
Do not exceed the prescribed dose or duration without consulting your doctor.
6
Report any swelling, especially in the ankles or feet, to your doctor promptly.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Burning sensation during urination
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this symptom.
Likely Use
Frequent urination
This medicine may help relieve this symptom by reducing urine acidity.
Likely Use
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary
Joint pain
This medicine is not a primary pain reliever for joint pain.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionDisodium hydrogen citrate is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The absorption is not significantly affected by food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.
DistributionCitrate is distributed throughout the body, primarily in the extracellular fluid. It does not bind significantly to plasma proteins.
Protein BindingNot established from the available information.
MetabolismCitrate is metabolised in the body, primarily in the liver and kidneys, to bicarbonate and carbon dioxide. This metabolism is part of normal cellular respiration.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of citrate is approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour, but the effect on urinary pH lasts longer due to the bicarbonate produced.
ExcretionThe metabolites, primarily bicarbonate, are excreted in the urine. Some citrate may also be excreted unchanged in the urine.
BioavailabilityNot established from the available information.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action for urinary alkalinisation is typically within 30 minutes to 1 hour after oral administration.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma levels of citrate are reached within 1 to 2 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action for urinary alkalinisation is approximately 4 to 6 hours, depending on the dose and individual factors.

How It Works

This medicine works by providing citrate ions, which are metabolised in the body to bicarbonate. Bicarbonate acts as a buffer to neutralise excess acid in the urine, thereby increasing urinary pH. This alkalinisation helps reduce the irritation of the urinary tract lining caused by acidic urine. Additionally, by making the urine less acidic, it creates an environment that is less favourable for the growth of certain bacteria and helps prevent the formation of uric acid stones.

Mechanism Steps

1
Ingestion and absorption: Disodium hydrogen citrate is swallowed and absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
2
Metabolism to bicarbonate: In the body, citrate is metabolised, primarily in the liver and kidneys, to bicarbonate, which is an alkaline substance.
3
Urinary excretion: Bicarbonate is filtered by the kidneys and excreted into the urine, where it neutralises excess hydrogen ions.
4
Increase in urinary pH: The neutralisation of hydrogen ions raises the pH of the urine, making it less acidic.
5
Symptomatic relief: The less acidic urine reduces irritation to the bladder and urethra, alleviating burning and discomfort.

💡 How to Take alkafresh syrup

Strength: Alkaliser syrup containing disodium hydrogen citrate (NA). Strength not specified.

1Shake the bottle well before use.
2Measure the prescribed dose using the measuring cup or spoon provided.
3Take the medicine orally, preferably after meals and at bedtime.
4You may mix the syrup with a small amount of water or fruit juice if desired.
5Drink a full glass of water after taking the medicine.
6Wash the measuring cup after each use.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 10-15 mL (two to three teaspoons) taken three to four times daily, preferably after meals and at bedtime. The dose may be adjusted by your doctor based on your condition and response. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially regarding sodium load. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on kidney function and overall health. Consult your doctor.
Renal ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be required. Consult your doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is established for hepatic impairment. Consult your doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose is not established from the available information. Follow your doctor's prescription.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
High-sodium foods
Limit intake
This medicine contains sodium; excessive intake may worsen fluid retention.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of alkafresh syrup

✅ Common Side Effects

Mild stomach discomfort (Common (5-10%))
Take with food or milk to reduce discomfort. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with a meal or snack. If nausea continues, talk to your doctor.
Diarrhoea (Common (5-10%))
Stay hydrated. If diarrhoea is severe or persistent, seek medical advice.
Increased thirst (Common (5-10%))
Drink plenty of water. This is usually not a cause for concern.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Hypernatraemia (high sodium levels) (Rare (<0.1%))
Contact your doctor if you experience swelling, especially in the ankles and feet, or if you have heart or kidney problems.
Metabolic alkalosis (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical advice if you experience confusion, muscle twitching, or irregular heartbeat.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Kidney stones
Consult your doctor if you experience severe back or side pain, blood in urine, or painful urination.
Hypokalaemia (low potassium levels)
Report muscle weakness, cramps, or palpitations to your doctor.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Aluminium-containing antacids Major
Lithium Major
Salicylates Major
Amphetamines Moderate
Quinidine Moderate
Methenamine Moderate
Tetracyclines Minor
Fluoroquinolones Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Aluminium-containing antacids
  • Lithium
  • Salicylates (e.g., aspirin)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Amphetamines
  • Quinidine
  • Methenamine

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the risk of stomach irritation and dehydration. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Severe kidney disease","Heart failure","Hypertension requiring salt restriction","Hypernatraemia","Metabolic alkalosis","Known hypersensitivity to disodium hydrogen citrate"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["This medicine contains sodium and may not be suitable for patients on a low-salt diet.","Use with caution in patients with heart or kidney disease.","Do not use for prolonged periods without medical supervision.","Avoid concurrent use with aluminium-containing antacids.","Consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may lead to metabolic alkalosis, hypernatraemia, and dehydration. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you have any kidney problems, heart failure, high blood pressure, or if you are on a low-salt diet. This medicine contains sodium, so it may not be suitable for you if you need to restrict your salt intake. Do not take this medicine for more than the recommended duration without consulting your doctor. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss with your doctor before using this medicine. Avoid taking antacids or other medicines that contain aluminium or calcium within two hours of taking this medicine, as they may reduce its effectiveness. Drink plenty of water while taking this medicine to help flush your urinary system. Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have similar symptoms. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the sodium content of this medicine and are at higher risk of electrolyte imbalances. Use with caution and monitor kidney function and electrolytes regularly.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. The safety of this medicine during pregnancy is not well established.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may be used after certain surgeries to alkalinise urine and prevent complications. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully regarding dosage and duration.

🦷 Dental Procedures

There are no specific precautions for dental procedures while taking this medicine. However, inform your dentist about all medicines you are taking.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush your urinary system.
🥗
Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
😴
Avoid excessive intake of high-sodium foods.
💧
Practice good hygiene to prevent urinary tract infections.
🧘
Urinate frequently and completely to avoid urine retention.
🌞
Avoid holding urine for long periods.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

There are no specific exercise restrictions while taking this medicine. However, if you experience dizziness or fatigue, avoid strenuous activities until you feel better. Stay hydrated during exercise.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily.
Include citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, which may help alkalinise urine.
Reduce intake of high-purine foods like red meat and seafood if you have gout.
Limit processed foods and added salts.
Include fiber-rich foods to support overall health.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine generally does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities until you feel normal. It should not interfere with your daily work routine.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop taking this medicine and consult your doctor if your symptoms do not improve within a few days, if they worsen, or if you experience any serious side effects. Do not stop taking it abruptly if you have been on long-term therapy without consulting your doctor.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may lead to electrolyte imbalances, such as hypernatraemia or hypokalaemia, and may increase the risk of kidney stones. Regular monitoring of urinary pH, serum electrolytes, and kidney function is recommended during prolonged use. Consult your doctor if you need to take this medicine for more than a few weeks.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Increased water intake

Drinking plenty of water helps dilute urine and reduce irritation.

Evidence: Well-established
Cranberry products

May help prevent urinary tract infections by preventing bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall.

Evidence: Moderate
Dietary changes

Avoiding acidic foods and drinks may help reduce urinary symptoms.

Evidence: Limited

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are scheduled for vaccination, inform your healthcare provider about all medicines you are taking.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When travelling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Bring a copy of your prescription in case of customs checks. Store it at room temperature and protect it from direct sunlight. If crossing time zones, continue your regular dosing schedule as closely as possible. Do not leave it in a hot car or checked luggage. If you need to take it with you on a flight, keep it in your carry-on bag.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with recurrent urinary tract infections
She experienced burning and frequent urination. Her doctor prescribed this medicine along with antibiotics. She took it after meals and drank plenty of water. Within two days, the burning sensation reduced significantly. She completed the full course and felt much better.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine as prescribed along with antibiotics and staying hydrated provides effective relief from UTI symptoms.
👤 A 50-year-old man with gout and a history of uric acid stones
He was advised to take this medicine daily to alkalinise his urine. He noticed fewer episodes of stone formation and less joint pain over several months. He regularly monitored his urinary pH as advised by his doctor.
💡 Lesson: Long-term use under medical supervision can help prevent uric acid stones and manage gout symptoms.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts working within 30 minutes to 1 hour after taking it. You may notice relief from burning and discomfort within a few hours.

Q: Can I take this medicine with antibiotics?

A: Yes, this medicine is often prescribed along with antibiotics for urinary tract infections. However, it may interact with certain antibiotics, so inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking.

Q: Is it safe to take this medicine during pregnancy?

A: The safety of this medicine during pregnancy is not well established. Consult your doctor before taking it if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for alkafresh syrup

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Alkaliser syrup can cure urinary tract infections.
    Fact: This medicine only provides symptomatic relief by reducing urine acidity. It does not treat the underlying infection, which requires antibiotics.
  • Myth: Alkaliser syrup is safe for everyone.
    Fact: It is not safe for people with severe kidney disease, heart failure, or those on a salt-restricted diet. Always consult a doctor.
  • Myth: You can take alkaliser syrup indefinitely.
    Fact: Long-term use should be monitored by a doctor as it may lead to kidney stones or electrolyte imbalances.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Disodium hydrogen citrate syrup

Brand Alternatives

  • Alkaliser syrup

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Disodium hydrogen citrate","class":"Urinary alkaliniser","main_use":"Urinary tract infections, uric acid stones","route":"Oral"},{"medicine":"Potassium citrate","class":"Urinary alkaliniser","main_use":"Uric acid stones, metabolic acidosis","route":"Oral"},{"medicine":"Sodium bicarbonate","class":"Antacid, alkaliniser","main_use":"Heartburn, metabolic acidosis","route":"Oral"}]

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