hitflo syrup - Disodium Hydrogen Citrate (1.37gm/5ml) medicine

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🏭 Zentis Drugs Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 26, 2026
⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for urinary alkalinization and kidney stone dissolution.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 26, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
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 or flank pain
  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Sudden swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Confusion, muscle twitching, or seizures
  • Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
  • Decreased urine output or inability to urinate
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is hitflo syrup used for?

This medicine is an oral syrup containing disodium hydrogen citrate, used to make urine less acidic. It helps relieve burning during urination, dissolve certain kidney stones, and correct mild metabolic acidosis. It is usually taken 2 to 4 times daily, and the dose must be prescribed by a doctor.

  • Generic Name: Disodium Hydrogen Citrate (1.37gm/5ml)
  • Manufacturer: Zentis Drugs Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 hitflo syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा मुख्य रूप से पेशाब में जलन और दर्द को कम करने के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। यह पेशाब को कम अम्लीय बनाती है, जिससे यूरिनरी ट्रैक्ट इन्फेक्शन के लक्षणों में राहत मिलती है। यह गुर्दे की पथरी (यूरिक एसिड स्टोन) को घोलने में भी मदद करती है और शरीर में एसिड-बेस संतुलन को सुधारती है। कुछ मामलों में गाउट के इलाज में भी इसका उपयोग किया जाता है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के आम दुष्प्रभावों में हल्का पेट दर्द, जी मिचलाना, दस्त, और मुँह में नमकीन स्वाद शामिल हैं। कभी-कभी पैरों या टखनों में सूजन आ सकती है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन अगर आपको त्वचा पर चकत्ते, सूजन, साँस लेने में कठिनाई, या दिल की धड़कन अनियमित महसूस हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। अपने आप मात्रा न बढ़ाएँ या घटाएँ। चूँकि इसमें सोडियम होता है, इसलिए हाई ब्लड प्रेशर, हार्ट फेलियर, या किडनी की बीमारी वाले लोग बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के इसका सेवन न करें। इस दवा को लेते समय भरपूर पानी पिएँ। एल्युमिनियम युक्त एंटासिड के साथ इसका सेवन न करें। गर्भावस्था या स्तनपान के दौरान डॉक्टर से परामर्श करें।

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

💊 hitflo syrup Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Urinary tract infection (UTI) symptom relief","description":"This medicine helps reduce the burning and stinging sensation during urination by making the urine less acidic.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Kidney stone dissolution (uric acid stones)","description":"It alkalinizes the urine, which helps dissolve uric acid stones and prevents new ones from forming.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Metabolic acidosis (mild to moderate)","description":"It helps correct low blood pH by providing citrate, which is converted to bicarbonate in the body.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Gout (adjunctive therapy)","description":"By alkalinizing urine, it increases uric acid excretion and may help prevent gout attacks.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Cystinuria","description":"It increases urine pH, which helps dissolve cystine stones in some patients.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Chemotherapy-induced nausea (rare)","description":"Occasionally used to alkalinize urine in patients receiving certain chemotherapy drugs to prevent drug precipitation in the kidneys.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Rhabdomyolysis prevention","description":"Sometimes used to alkalinize urine in patients with muscle breakdown to protect the kidneys.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Urinary tract infection

Also treats: Kidney stones (uric acid), Metabolic acidosis, Gout, Cystinuria

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Disodium Hydrogen Citrate (1.37gm/5ml)
Brand Namehitflo syrup
ManufacturerZentis Drugs 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. Do not refrigerate. 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
Always measure the dose accurately using the provided measuring cup; household spoons are not reliable.
2
Take this medicine with a full glass of water to help it work and to prevent dehydration.
3
If you have high blood pressure or heart failure, inform your doctor before starting this medicine because of its sodium content.
4
Avoid taking aluminium-containing antacids within two hours of this medicine to prevent aluminium toxicity.
5
Monitor your urine pH if your doctor advises; the goal is usually a pH between 6.5 and 7.0 for stone dissolution.
6
Do not use this medicine for more than a few days without consulting your doctor, especially if symptoms persist.
7
Keep all follow-up appointments for blood tests to check electrolyte levels and kidney function.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Burning during urination
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this symptom.
Likely Use
✅
Frequent urination
This medicine can help reduce urgency and frequency.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer; fever may indicate infection requiring antibiotics.
Not Primary
❌
Severe flank pain
This may indicate a kidney stone or infection; seek immediate medical attention.
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 the available information.
DistributionCitrate is distributed throughout the body and is taken up by tissues, particularly the liver, kidneys, and bones. It does not bind significantly to plasma proteins.
Protein BindingNot established from the available information.
MetabolismCitrate is metabolized in the liver and other tissues via the Krebs cycle to bicarbonate and carbon dioxide. This conversion is rapid and efficient.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of citrate is short, typically around 30 minutes to 1 hour, but the effect on urine pH lasts longer due to the bicarbonate produced.
ExcretionThe bicarbonate produced from citrate is excreted primarily by the kidneys. Some citrate may also be excreted unchanged in the urine. The sodium component is excreted in the urine and feces.
BioavailabilityNot established from the available information.
Onset of ActionThe effect on urine pH begins within 1 to 2 hours after taking a dose.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma levels of citrate are reached within 1 to 2 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe alkalinizing effect on urine lasts for approximately 4 to 6 hours after a single dose, depending on the dose and individual factors.

How It Works

This medicine works by providing citrate ions, which are metabolized in the body to bicarbonate. Bicarbonate is a natural buffer that neutralizes excess acid. When taken orally, disodium hydrogen citrate increases the pH of the urine, making it less acidic. This alkalinization helps relieve the burning sensation of urinary tract infections, dissolves uric acid and cystine stones, and corrects mild metabolic acidosis. It also reduces the amount of free acid in the urine, which can irritate the bladder and urethra.

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 metabolized in the liver and other tissues to bicarbonate, which acts as a buffer.
3
Alkalinization of urine: Bicarbonate is excreted by the kidneys, raising the pH of the urine and making it less acidic.
4
Therapeutic effects: The increased urine pH reduces bladder irritation, helps dissolve uric acid and cystine stones, and corrects metabolic acidosis.

💡 How to Take hitflo syrup

Strength: Each 5 ml of syrup contains disodium hydrogen citrate 1.37 g.

1Shake the bottle well before each use.
2Measure the dose accurately using the measuring cup or spoon provided.
3Take the medicine orally, with or without food.
4Drink a full glass of water after taking the dose.
5Wash the measuring cup after each use.
6Close the bottle tightly after use.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 5 to 10 ml (one to two teaspoons) taken two to four times daily, depending on the condition being treated. For urinary tract infections, it is often taken every 4 to 6 hours. For kidney stones, the dose may be higher and adjusted based on urine pH. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the sodium content and electrolyte effects of this medicine. Lower doses may be appropriate, and kidney function should be monitored. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with kidney disease. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on kidney function. Consult a doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is established for liver disease. Use with caution and consult a doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose depends on the indication and individual patient factors. It should not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor. Typically, up to 40 ml per day may be used, but this must be confirmed by a clinician.

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
High-sodium foods
Limit
This medicine already contains sodium; excess can worsen fluid retention.
Water
Drink plenty
Helps the medicine work and prevents dehydration.

⏰ 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 hitflo syrup

✅ Common Side Effects

Mild stomach upset (Common (5-10%))
Take with food or a small snack to reduce discomfort. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Try taking the medicine with meals. If nausea continues, speak to your doctor.
Loose stools (Common (5-10%))
Stay hydrated. If diarrhea becomes severe or persistent, contact your doctor.
Salty taste (Common (5-10%))
Rinse your mouth with water after taking the dose. This effect is harmless.
Increased thirst (Common (5-10%))
Drink plenty of water throughout the day. This is expected and helps the medicine work.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency medical help immediately if you experience rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Fluid retention and swelling (edema) (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Contact your doctor if you notice swelling in your ankles, feet, or hands, or sudden weight gain.
High sodium levels (hypernatremia) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical attention if you experience confusion, muscle twitching, seizures, or extreme thirst.
Low potassium levels (hypokalemia) (Rare (<0.1%))
Report muscle weakness, cramps, or irregular heartbeat to your doctor promptly.
Metabolic alkalosis (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical help if you have confusion, nausea, vomiting, or irregular heartbeat.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Kidney stones (with prolonged high-dose use)
Report severe flank pain or blood in urine to your doctor immediately.
Hypercalcemia
Inform your doctor if you experience excessive urination, bone pain, or confusion.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Aluminium-containing antacids Major
Lithium Major
Methenamine Major
Thiazide diuretics Moderate
Loop diuretics Moderate
Corticosteroids Moderate
ACE inhibitors Moderate
ARBs Moderate
Anticholinergic drugs Minor
Iron supplements Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Aluminium-containing antacids
  • Lithium
  • Methenamine

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Diuretics (thiazide, loop)
  • Corticosteroids
  • ACE inhibitors and ARBs

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase stomach irritation and worsen dehydration. It is advisable to avoid or limit alcohol while taking this medicine, especially if you have a urinary tract infection or kidney stones.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Severe kidney disease with inability to excrete sodium","Uncontrolled heart failure","Severe hypertension","Hypernatremia (high blood sodium)","Metabolic alkalosis","Known hypersensitivity to disodium hydrogen citrate or any component of the formulation","Patients on a strict low-sodium diet"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["This medicine contains sodium; use with caution in patients with hypertension, heart failure, or kidney disease.","Do not use for prolonged periods without medical supervision.","Drink plenty of water while taking this medicine to prevent stone formation.","Avoid taking aluminium-containing antacids within 2 hours of this medicine.","Monitor electrolyte levels if used for more than a few days.","Consult your doctor before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.","Keep out of reach of children."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether disodium hydrogen citrate passes into breast milk in significant amounts. It is generally considered safe for use during breastfeeding, but consult your doctor before use.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine may cause metabolic alkalosis, hypernatremia, and fluid overload. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, confusion, muscle twitching, and irregular heartbeat. If you suspect an overdose, 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 take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, and do not increase or decrease the dose on your own. Because this medicine contains sodium, people with high blood pressure, heart failure, kidney disease, or those on a low-salt diet must check with their doctor before using it. Drink plenty of water while taking this medicine to help it work and to reduce the risk of stone formation. Avoid taking antacids or other medicines that contain aluminium or calcium at the same time, as they can reduce the effect of this medicine. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine. Keep all follow-up appointments so your doctor can monitor your blood electrolyte levels and urine pH if needed. Do not use this medicine for longer than recommended without medical supervision.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the sodium content and electrolyte effects of this medicine. They may be at higher risk of fluid retention, high blood pressure, and kidney problems. Lower doses may be appropriate, and kidney function and electrolytes should be monitored regularly. Consult a doctor for personalized dosing.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. It is generally considered safe during pregnancy when prescribed, but only if clearly needed. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

After surgery, use this medicine only if prescribed by your doctor. It may be used to alkalinize urine in certain post-surgical situations, but your doctor will determine the appropriate dose and duration based on your condition.

🦷 Dental Procedures

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

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water daily to help flush your urinary system.
🥗
Limit your intake of high-sodium foods like pickles, papad, and processed snacks.
😴
Include fresh fruits and vegetables rich in potassium, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
💧
Maintain good personal hygiene to prevent urinary tract infections.
🧘
Urinate when you feel the urge; do not hold it for long periods.
🌞
Wear loose, breathable cotton underwear to reduce moisture and bacterial growth.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

There are no specific exercise restrictions while taking this medicine. However, if you have kidney stones or a urinary tract infection, avoid strenuous activities that may worsen pain. Listen to your body and rest when needed. Stay hydrated during exercise.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Reduce intake of high-purine foods like red meat and shellfish if you have gout or uric acid stones.
Limit salt and processed foods to avoid excess sodium.
Include citrus fruits like lemon and orange, which naturally contain citrate.
Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can irritate the bladder.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine does not usually cause drowsiness or impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. You can continue your normal daily activities. However, if you experience dizziness or any unusual symptoms, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you feel better.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, especially if you are being treated for a kidney stone or metabolic acidosis. If you experience severe side effects or an allergic reaction, stop the medicine and seek immediate medical help. Your doctor will advise you on the appropriate duration of treatment.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine can lead to electrolyte imbalances such as high sodium and low potassium levels, metabolic alkalosis, and fluid retention. It may also increase the risk of kidney stones if not monitored properly. Regular blood tests and urine pH monitoring are recommended for prolonged use. Your doctor may adjust the dose or recommend alternative treatments if any issues arise.

🌿 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 stone formation.

Evidence: Well-established
Dietary changes

Reducing purine-rich foods and sodium can help manage uric acid stones and gout.

Evidence: Well-established
Potassium citrate supplements

An alternative alkalinizing agent that does not contain sodium, suitable for some patients.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. You can receive vaccinations as scheduled. However, always 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 traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Bring a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor, especially for international travel. Store it at room temperature and protect it from extreme heat or direct sunlight. If you are crossing time zones, continue taking your doses at the same intervals as prescribed; you may need to adjust the timing gradually. Always pack enough for your entire trip and carry it in your hand luggage.

💰 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 an antibiotic. She took the syrup as directed, drank plenty of water, and within two days the burning sensation reduced significantly. She completed the full course and felt much better.
💡 Lesson: This medicine can relieve UTI symptoms quickly when taken correctly and combined with adequate hydration and prescribed antibiotics.
👤 A 50-year-old man with a history of uric acid kidney stones
He was prescribed this medicine to alkalinize his urine and prevent stone formation. He took it regularly and monitored his urine pH with strips as advised. Over several months, his follow-up scans showed no new stones, and his existing small stone dissolved.
💡 Lesson: Consistent use of this medicine, along with monitoring and lifestyle changes, can help manage and prevent uric acid stones.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts working within 1 to 2 hours after taking a dose. You may notice relief from burning within a few hours, but full effects on urine pH may take a day or two of regular dosing.

Q: Can I take this medicine with antibiotics?

A: Yes, it is often prescribed alongside antibiotics for urinary tract infections. However, always inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking to avoid interactions.

Q: Is this medicine safe for long-term use?

A: Long-term use should only be done under medical supervision. Prolonged use can affect electrolyte balance and kidney function. Your doctor will monitor you regularly.

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 dose.

Q: Can I take this medicine during pregnancy?

A: Consult your doctor before taking this medicine during pregnancy. It is generally considered safe when prescribed, but only if clearly needed.

🤔 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?
  • Is it safe for children?
  • How long does it take to work?

🔄 Substitutes for hitflo 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 any urinary tract infection without antibiotics.
    Fact: This medicine only relieves symptoms by alkalinizing urine. It does not kill bacteria. Bacterial UTIs require antibiotics prescribed by a doctor.
  • Myth: More medicine means faster relief.
    Fact: Taking more than the prescribed dose can cause serious electrolyte imbalances and fluid retention. Always follow your doctor's instructions.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone.
    Fact: It is not safe for people with severe kidney disease, uncontrolled heart failure, or high sodium levels. Always consult a doctor before use.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Disodium hydrogen citrate oral solution
  • Sodium citrate oral solution

Brand Alternatives

  • Oricitral Syrup Lemon

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Disodium hydrogen citrate","class":"Urinary alkalinizer","main_use":"UTI symptom relief, kidney stones","sodium_content":"High","potassium_content":"None"},{"medicine":"Potassium citrate","class":"Urinary alkalinizer","main_use":"Kidney stones, metabolic acidosis","sodium_content":"None","potassium_content":"High"},{"medicine":"Sodium bicarbonate","class":"Antacid, alkalinizer","main_use":"Metabolic acidosis, heartburn","sodium_content":"High","potassium_content":"None"}]

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