Alkacitrate 1.38gm Syrup: Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 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
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is apitrate syrup used for?
This medicine is an oral syrup containing disodium hydrogen citrate, used to relieve urinary tract infection symptoms and prevent certain kidney stones by making urine less acidic.
- Generic Name: Disodium Hydrogen Citrate (1.38gm)
- Manufacturer: Agrawal Drugs Pvt. Ltd.
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 apitrate syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा मूत्र पथ के संक्रमण में जलन और दर्द को कम करने, गुर्दे की पथरी (यूरिक एसिड स्टोन) को घोलने और मेटाबॉलिक एसिडोसिस के इलाज में मदद करती है। यह मूत्र को कम अम्लीय बनाती है, जिससे बैक्टीरिया पनप नहीं पाते और पथरी बनने का खतरा कम होता है।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में जी मिचलाना, पेट में असहजता, दस्त और प्यास लगना शामिल हैं। कभी-कभी पैरों में सूजन आ सकती है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन अगर सांस लेने में तकलीफ, चकत्ते या दिल की धड़कन अनियमित हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को लेने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर को गुर्दे, दिल या ब्लड प्रेशर की बीमारी के बारे में बताएं। यह दवा सोडियम युक्त है, इसलिए नमक कम करने वाले आहार पर सावधानी बरतें। पर्याप्त पानी पिएं। एल्युमिनियम युक्त एंटासिड के साथ न लें। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें।
💊 apitrate syrup Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Urinary tract infection (UTI) symptom relief","description":"This medicine helps reduce the burning and urgency associated with UTIs by making the urine less acidic, which creates an environment less favorable for bacterial growth.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Uric acid kidney stones","description":"By alkalinizing the urine, this medicine helps dissolve existing uric acid stones and prevents new ones from forming.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Metabolic acidosis","description":"This medicine can be used to correct mild metabolic acidosis by providing an alkali load, though it is not a first-line treatment for severe cases.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Cystinuria","description":"Alkalinization of urine increases the solubility of cystine, helping to prevent cystine stone formation in patients with this inherited disorder.","evidence":"Moderate"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Chemotherapy-induced hemorrhagic cystitis prevention","description":"Sometimes used off-label to alkalinize urine in patients receiving certain chemotherapy drugs (like cyclophosphamide) to reduce bladder irritation.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Rhabdomyolysis","description":"May be used off-label to alkalinize urine and prevent kidney damage from myoglobin in crush injuries, though evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Urinary tract infection
Also treats: Uric acid kidney stones, Metabolic acidosis, Cystinuria
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Disodium Hydrogen Citrate (1.38gm) |
| Brand Name | apitrate syrup |
| Manufacturer | Agrawal Drugs Pvt. Ltd. |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | UROLOGY |
| Action Class | Uricosuric agent-gout |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Do not freeze. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine works by providing citrate ions that are metabolized in the body to bicarbonate. Bicarbonate is a base that neutralizes excess acid, thereby increasing the pH of the urine. This alkalinization makes the urine less acidic, which helps relieve the burning sensation of urinary tract infections and increases the solubility of uric acid and cystine, preventing stone formation. Additionally, the citrate itself can inhibit the crystallization of calcium oxalate, further reducing stone risk.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take apitrate syrup
Strength: Each 5 mL of syrup contains 1.38 grams of disodium hydrogen citrate.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is 5 to 10 mL (providing 1.38 to 2.76 grams of disodium hydrogen citrate) taken orally two to four times daily, depending on the condition being treated. For urinary tract infection, it is often taken three times a day after meals. For kidney stones, the dose may be adjusted based on urine pH. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the sodium load and fluid retention. Dose should be adjusted cautiously by a clinician, with monitoring of kidney function and electrolytes. |
| Renal Impairment | Use with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose reduction may be necessary. Consult a nephrologist. |
| Hepatic Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is established for hepatic impairment. Use with caution and monitor liver function. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose should not exceed 30 mL (providing 8.28 grams of disodium hydrogen citrate) unless directed by a clinician. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of apitrate syrup
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum antacids | Major | |
| Tetracycline | Major | |
| Fluoroquinolones | Major | |
| Lithium | Moderate | |
| Aspirin | Moderate | |
| Amphetamines | Minor | |
| Quinidine | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Aluminum-containing antacids
- Tetracycline antibiotics
- Fluoroquinolone antibiotics
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Lithium
- Salicylates (e.g., aspirin)
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may increase stomach irritation and worsen dehydration. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, especially if you have a urinary tract infection.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Severe renal impairment","Uncontrolled hypertension","Congestive heart failure","Hypernatremia","Metabolic alkalosis","Active peptic ulcer disease","Known hypersensitivity to citrates"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Contains sodium; caution in patients on sodium-restricted diet.","May cause fluid retention; monitor weight and edema.","Use with caution in patients with kidney or heart disease.","Do not use to treat urinary tract infection without medical supervision.","May interact with certain antibiotics; inform your doctor.","Not recommended for children unless prescribed by a pediatrician."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before using while breastfeeding.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose may cause metabolic alkalosis, hypernatremia, and dehydration. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Seek immediate medical attention. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a healthcare professional.
⏰ 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.
Additional Safety Advice
Before starting this medicine, inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, heart failure, high blood pressure, or any condition that requires you to limit salt intake. This medicine contains sodium, so it may not be suitable if you are on a low-sodium diet. Do not take this medicine with antacids that contain aluminum or calcium, as they can reduce its effectiveness. Avoid taking it at the same time as certain antibiotics (like tetracyclines or fluoroquinolones) because the change in urine pH can affect how well they work. Drink plenty of water while taking this medicine to help flush the urinary tract and prevent crystal formation. Do not exceed the prescribed dose, and do not use it for longer than recommended without medical advice. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Keep it out of reach of children. Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients are more prone to fluid retention and electrolyte imbalances. Use with caution and monitor kidney function and blood pressure regularly.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor before using this medicine. It should be used only if clearly needed.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
After surgery, use this medicine only if prescribed by your surgeon. It may affect fluid and electrolyte balance.
🦷 Dental Procedures
No specific precautions. Inform your dentist about all medicines you are taking.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
No specific exercise restrictions. However, if you experience dizziness or muscle weakness due to electrolyte imbalance, avoid strenuous activities and consult your doctor.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine generally does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you feel dizzy or unwell, avoid these activities until you feel better.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop this medicine and consult your doctor if you experience severe side effects such as allergic reactions, irregular heartbeat, or persistent vomiting. Do not stop abruptly if you are being treated for a chronic condition without medical advice.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine may lead to electrolyte imbalances, fluid retention, and metabolic alkalosis. Regular monitoring of kidney function, electrolytes, and urine pH is recommended. Do not use for prolonged periods without medical supervision.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Helps flush the urinary tract and prevent stone formation.
Evidence: Well-establishedReducing purine-rich foods can help prevent uric acid stones.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
No known interactions with vaccines. Continue routine vaccinations as per schedule.
📦 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
Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from direct sunlight. If traveling across time zones, adjust dosing times gradually as advised by your doctor. Keep enough supply for the entire trip. Check customs regulations for carrying medicines.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine starts alkalinizing urine within 1 to 2 hours, but symptom relief may take a few doses.
A: Yes, but some antibiotics like tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones may interact. Inform your doctor.
A: Consult your doctor. Use only if clearly needed.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for apitrate syrup
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
alkacitrate 1.38gm syrupCarminol Laboratories Pvt Ltd ₹30.00 20% COSTLIER
-
b citral syrupBiocare Remedies ₹37.50 50% COSTLIER
-
monitra syrupBiometrix Pharma ₹40.00 60% COSTLIER
-
dihydro syrupReltic Labs ₹40.78 63.1% COSTLIER
-
citracell 1.38gm syrupBiocell Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd ₹46.50 86% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can cure any urinary tract infection without antibiotics.
Fact: This medicine only helps relieve symptoms by alkalinizing urine; it does not kill bacteria. Antibiotics are often needed. - Myth: It is safe to take this medicine for a long time without monitoring.
Fact: Long-term use requires monitoring of electrolytes and kidney function due to sodium content.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Disodium hydrogen citrate syrup
Brand Alternatives
- Alkacitrate 1.38gm syrup