What is citafro syrup used for?

This medicine is an oral syrup containing disodium hydrogen citrate, used to alkalinize urine and treat conditions like kidney stones and urinary tract infections. It works by neutralizing acid in the urine, helping to dissolve stones and relieve burning during urination.

Generic Name: Disodium Hydrogen Citrate
Manufacturer: Medilente Pharma Pvt Ltd
Form: Allopathy
Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 citafro syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा मुख्य रूप से गुर्दे की पथरी (किडनी स्टोन) और मूत्र मार्ग के संक्रमण में उपयोग की जाती है। यह पेशाब को कम अम्लीय बनाकर पथरी को घोलने और बनने से रोकने में मदद करती है। इसके अलावा, यह पेशाब में जलन को कम करती है और कुछ एंटीबायोटिक्स के प्रभाव को बढ़ाती है। यह दवा डिस्टल रीनल ट्यूबुलर एसिडोसिस में भी फायदेमंद है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में जी मिचलाना, दस्त, पेट में गड़बड़ी और बार-बार पेशाब आना शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और कुछ समय में ठीक हो जाते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन इलेक्ट्रोलाइट असंतुलन के लक्षण जैसे मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी, अनियमित दिल की धड़कन, भ्रम या हाथ-पैरों में सूजन हो सकती है। ऐसे लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को लेने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी स्वास्थ्य समस्याओं के बारे में बताएं, खासकर अगर आपको गुर्दे की बीमारी, दिल की विफलता, उच्च रक्तचाप या नमक प्रतिबंधित आहार की सलाह दी गई हो। इस दवा को हमेशा भोजन के बाद लें ताकि पेट में गड़बड़ी न हो। दिन भर पर्याप्त पानी पिएं। एल्युमिनियम युक्त एंटासिड इस दवा के साथ न लें। बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के दवा शुरू या बंद न करें।

💊 citafro syrup Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Distal renal tubular acidosis","description":"This medicine helps correct metabolic acidosis by alkalinizing the blood and urine, reducing the risk of kidney stones and bone loss.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Uric acid kidney stones","description":"By increasing urine pH, this medicine dissolves existing uric acid stones and prevents new ones from forming.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Cystine kidney stones","description":"Alkalinizing urine helps increase the solubility of cystine, reducing stone formation in patients with cystinuria.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Urinary tract infections","description":"This medicine reduces burning and irritation by making urine less acidic, and it can enhance the action of certain antibiotics.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Chemotherapy-induced hyperuricemia","description":"Used to prevent uric acid precipitation in the kidneys during tumor lysis syndrome, though allopurinol is more common.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Gout prophylaxis","description":"Sometimes used to alkalinize urine in gout patients to prevent uric acid stone formation, but not as a primary treatment for acute gout.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Metabolic acidosis from chronic kidney disease","description":"May be used off-label to correct mild metabolic acidosis in CKD, but requires careful monitoring.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Kidney stones (uric acid and cystine)

Also treats: Distal renal tubular acidosis, Urinary tract infections, Gout

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)	Disodium Hydrogen Citrate
Brand Name	Alkasol Oral Solution
Manufacturer	Medilente Pharma 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. Keep the bottle tightly closed. 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

1

Always take this medicine after meals to minimize stomach upset.

2

Encourage patients to drink 2-3 liters of water daily to enhance the effect.

3

Monitor serum electrolytes and urine pH regularly, especially in long-term use.

4

Avoid concomitant use with aluminum-containing antacids to prevent aluminum toxicity.

5

Use with caution in patients with heart failure or hypertension due to sodium content.

6

Instruct patients not to double the dose if a dose is missed.

7

Consider alternative therapy in patients with severe renal impairment.

🔍 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.

Likely Use

✅

Kidney stone pain

This medicine helps dissolve and prevent uric acid stones.

Likely Use

❌

Fever

This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.

Not Primary

❌

Headache

This medicine is not indicated for headache.

Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionDisodium hydrogen citrate is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The citrate component is absorbed and then metabolized. The exact bioavailability is not well established from available information.

DistributionAfter absorption, citrate is distributed throughout the body and metabolized to bicarbonate. It does not bind significantly to plasma proteins. The distribution is largely extracellular.

Protein BindingNot established from the available information.

MetabolismCitrate is metabolized in the liver and other tissues via the Krebs cycle to bicarbonate, carbon dioxide, and water. This conversion is rapid and efficient.

Half-LifeThe half-life of citrate is very short, typically minutes, as it is rapidly metabolized. The effect on urinary pH lasts several hours.

ExcretionThe bicarbonate produced is excreted primarily by the kidneys, with some excretion as carbon dioxide through the lungs. Unmetabolized citrate may also be excreted in urine.

BioavailabilityNot established from the available information.

Onset of ActionThe effect on urinary pH begins within 1 to 2 hours after oral administration.

Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma levels of citrate are achieved within 1 to 2 hours, but the relevant effect is on urinary pH, which peaks around 2 to 4 hours.

Duration of ActionThe alkalinizing effect on urine lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours after a single dose, depending on fluid intake and renal function.

How It Works

This medicine works by providing citrate ions that are metabolized in the body to bicarbonate. Bicarbonate acts as a buffer to neutralize excess acid in the blood and urine. In the urine, the increased pH makes uric acid and cystine more soluble, preventing crystal formation. Additionally, citrate directly inhibits the aggregation of calcium oxalate crystals, reducing the risk of stone formation. The sodium content also helps maintain electrolyte balance.

Mechanism Steps

1

Absorption and metabolism: Disodium hydrogen citrate is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and rapidly metabolized in the liver to bicarbonate.

2

Systemic buffering: Bicarbonate neutralizes excess hydrogen ions in the blood, correcting metabolic acidosis.

3

Urinary alkalinization: Bicarbonate is filtered by the kidneys and excreted into urine, raising urinary pH.

4

Stone prevention: Higher urine pH increases the solubility of uric acid and cystine, preventing crystal formation and dissolving existing stones.

5

Symptom relief: Alkalinized urine reduces irritation of the bladder and urethra, easing burning during urination.

💡 How to Take citafro syrup

Strength: Syrup containing disodium hydrogen citrate 1.37 grams per dose (typically per 5 mL or 10 mL, depending on the product).

1Shake the bottle well before each use.

2Measure the prescribed dose using a medicine cup or spoon provided.

3Take this medicine after meals to reduce stomach upset.

4Drink a full glass of water after taking the dose.

5Do not take antacids containing aluminum within 2 hours of this medicine.

6Follow your doctor's instructions exactly and do not exceed the recommended dose.

Dosage Information

Adult Dosage	The usual adult dose of this medicine is 10 to 30 mL of syrup (providing approximately 1.37 to 4.11 grams of disodium hydrogen citrate) taken orally, typically three to four times daily after meals and at bedtime. The exact dose depends on the condition being treated, such as kidney stones or urinary tract infections, and on the patient's response and kidney function. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not self-adjust the dose.
Pediatric Dosage	Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly Dosage	Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially regarding electrolyte imbalances and fluid retention. Dose should be individualized by a clinician, and kidney function should be monitored regularly.
Renal Impairment	In patients with mild to moderate renal impairment, dose adjustment may be necessary. This medicine is contraindicated in severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min). Consult a nephrologist for guidance.
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 is not well established and depends on the indication and patient's tolerance. Typically, up to 30 mL four times daily may be used, but this must be determined by a clinician.

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food

Take after meals

Reduces stomach upset and enhances absorption.

High-sodium foods

Limit intake

May increase sodium load and fluid retention.

Citrus fruits

Consume in moderation

May further alkalinize urine, leading to over-alkalinization.

⏰ 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 citafro syrup

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (5-10%))

Take with food or milk to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.

Diarrhea (Common (5-10%))

Stay hydrated. If diarrhea is severe or persistent, contact your doctor.

Stomach upset (Common (5-10%))

Take after meals. Avoid taking on an empty stomach.

Increased urination (Common (10-20%))

This is expected. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Metabolic alkalosis (Rare (<0.1%))

Seek medical attention if you experience confusion, muscle twitching, or irregular heartbeat.

Hypernatremia (Rare (<0.1%))

Report symptoms like excessive thirst, confusion, or swelling. Requires immediate medical evaluation.

Heart failure exacerbation (Rare (<0.1%))

If you have heart failure, watch for weight gain, swelling, or shortness of breath. Contact your doctor immediately.

Allergic reaction (Rare (<0.1%))

Seek emergency care if you develop rash, itching, swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Hypokalemia

Report muscle weakness, cramps, or palpitations to your doctor.

Tetany

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience muscle spasms or tingling in fingers and toes.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug	Severity	Effect
Aluminum antacids	Major
ACE inhibitors	Major
Potassium-sparing diuretics	Major
Corticosteroids	Moderate
NSAIDs	Moderate
Lithium	Moderate
Anticholinergics	Minor
Thiazide diuretics	Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

Aluminum-containing antacids
Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors)
Potassium-sparing diuretics

⚡ Moderate Interactions

Corticosteroids
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Lithium

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

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

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Severe kidney impairment (eGFR

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Use with caution in patients with mild to moderate kidney disease.","Monitor sodium levels in patients with heart failure or hypertension.","Avoid in patients with a history of kidney stones composed of calcium phosphate.","Do not use to treat acute gout attacks.","May interfere with urine tests for certain substances.","Consult your doctor before using if you are on a potassium-restricted diet.","Keep out of reach of children."]

🤱 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 cause metabolic alkalosis, hypernatremia, and dehydration. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, confusion, and muscle twitching. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and may include intravenous fluids and electrolyte correction.

⏰ 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 kidney disease, heart failure, high blood pressure, or any condition requiring a low-sodium diet. Do not take this medicine if you have severe kidney impairment or are on a potassium-restricted diet without medical advice. Take this medicine exactly as prescribed, usually after meals to reduce stomach upset. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help the medicine work effectively. Avoid taking antacids containing aluminum or calcium within two hours of this medicine, as they can reduce its effectiveness. Do not start or stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. Regular monitoring of blood electrolytes and urine pH may be necessary during treatment. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before use.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more prone to electrolyte imbalances and fluid retention. Close monitoring of kidney function, electrolytes, and blood pressure is advised. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal function.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. The safety profile in pregnancy is not well established, and alternative treatments may be considered.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

After surgery, use this medicine with caution, especially if you have fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Consult your surgeon or physician before resuming.

🦷 Dental Procedures

No specific precautions are required for dental procedures. However, inform your dentist about all medicines you are taking.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃

Drink plenty of water, at least 2-3 liters per day, to help prevent kidney stones.

🥗

Limit intake of high-sodium foods to reduce fluid retention.

😴

Include fruits and vegetables rich in citrate, like lemons and oranges, in moderation.

💧

Maintain a healthy weight through balanced diet and regular exercise.

🧘

Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you.

🌞

Follow a low-oxalate diet if you have calcium oxalate stones.

🚭

Practice good urinary hygiene to prevent infections.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Moderate exercise is generally safe while taking this medicine. However, if you experience muscle weakness or cramps due to electrolyte imbalance, avoid strenuous activities and consult your doctor. Stay hydrated during exercise.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Increase water intake to 2-3 liters daily.

Reduce sodium intake to prevent fluid retention.

Consume citrate-rich foods like lemons, oranges, and melons in moderation.

Limit high-purine foods like red meat and seafood if you have gout.

Avoid excessive vitamin C supplements, which can increase oxalate levels.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine generally does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or confusion due to electrolyte imbalance, avoid these activities and consult your doctor. It may cause frequent urination, so plan accordingly during work hours.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects or your symptoms worsen, contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor may adjust the dose or switch to an alternative therapy.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may lead to electrolyte imbalances such as hypernatremia and hypokalemia. It can also cause metabolic alkalosis if overused. Regular monitoring of blood electrolytes, kidney function, and urine pH is recommended. In patients with heart failure or hypertension, sodium retention may worsen the condition. Periodic review by a doctor is necessary to adjust the dose and assess the need for continued therapy.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Increased water intake

Drinking plenty of water helps flush out stones and prevent new ones.

Evidence: Well-established

Dietary modifications

Reducing sodium, oxalate, and purine intake can help manage stone risk.

Evidence: Well-established

Potassium citrate

An alternative alkalinizing agent that may be used in patients who cannot tolerate sodium.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific interactions with vaccines are known. However, consult your doctor before any vaccination if you are on this medicine.

📦 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

✅ DO

Keep out of reach of children

❌ DON'T

Do not use after expiry date

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store it at room temperature and protect it from direct sunlight. If crossing time zones, continue your regular dosing schedule but consult your doctor for adjustments if needed. Declare it at customs if required. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid temperature extremes.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 45-year-old man with recurrent uric acid kidney stones

He was prescribed this medicine three times daily after meals. He also increased his water intake to 3 liters per day. After 3 months, his follow-up ultrasound showed no new stones, and his urine pH was consistently alkaline. He reported mild nausea initially, which subsided after taking it with food.

💡 Lesson: Adherence to the prescribed schedule and adequate hydration are key to preventing stone recurrence.

👤 A 60-year-old woman with distal renal tubular acidosis

She started this medicine and noticed improvement in her fatigue and muscle weakness within a few weeks. Her blood bicarbonate levels normalized. She was advised to monitor her blood pressure and sodium intake. She experienced no significant side effects.

💡 Lesson: Regular monitoring and dietary modifications help manage underlying conditions effectively.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts alkalinizing urine within 1-2 hours, but noticeable relief from symptoms may take a few days. Full benefits for stone prevention may take weeks.

Q: Can I take this medicine with other medications?

A: It can interact with certain medicines like ACE inhibitors, potassium-sparing diuretics, and aluminum antacids. Always inform your doctor about all medicines you take.

Q: Is it safe to take during pregnancy?

A: The safety in pregnancy is not well established. Consult your doctor before use.

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

A: Take it as soon as you remember, but if it's almost time for the next dose, skip it. Do not double 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 citafro syrup

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

Myth: This medicine can cure all types of kidney stones.
Fact: It is effective only for uric acid and cystine stones, not for calcium oxalate stones.
Myth: You can stop taking this medicine once symptoms improve.
Fact: You should complete the full course as prescribed to prevent recurrence.
Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone.
Fact: It is not safe for people with severe kidney disease, heart failure, or on a low-sodium diet.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

Disodium hydrogen citrate syrup (generic)

Brand Alternatives

Alkaset syrup

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","active_ingredient":"Disodium hydrogen citrate","primary_use":"Urinary alkalinization","route":"Oral"},{"medicine":"Potassium citrate","active_ingredient":"Potassium citrate","primary_use":"Urinary alkalinization","route":"Oral"},{"medicine":"Sodium bicarbonate","active_ingredient":"Sodium bicarbonate","primary_use":"Metabolic acidosis","route":"Oral"}]

Alkaset Syrup: Complete Guide To Uses, Dosage, And Safety

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

What is citafro syrup used for?

🇮🇳 citafro syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

💊 citafro syrup Uses & Benefits

📋 Drug Information

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

How It Works

Mechanism Steps

💡 How to Take citafro syrup

Dosage Information

Dosage Timeline

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

⚠️ Side Effects of citafro syrup

✅ Common Side Effects

🚨 Serious Side Effects

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

🔬 Drug Interactions

🚨 Major Interactions

⚡ Moderate Interactions

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

🤱 Lactation Safety

💊 Overdose Management

⏰ Missed Dose

Additional Safety Advice

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

🦷 Dental Procedures

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

🥗 Diet Recommendations

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

❌ DON'T

✅ DO

❌ DON'T

✅ DO

❌ DON'T

✅ DO

❌ DON'T

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

🔄 Substitutes for citafro syrup

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

Brand Alternatives

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

😊 Was this information helpful?

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