intalka syrup - Disodium Hydrogen Citrate (NA) medicine

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🏭 Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 20, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for urinary alkalinization; 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 intalka syrup used for?

This medicine is a urinary alkalinizer used to relieve burning and discomfort during urination caused by urinary tract infections. It works by making the urine less acidic, which reduces irritation and helps create an environment less favourable for bacteria. It is not an antibiotic and should be used under medical supervision.

  • Generic Name: Disodium Hydrogen Citrate (NA)
  • Manufacturer: Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 intalka syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा मूत्र पथ के संक्रमण में जलन, दर्द और बार-बार पेशाब आने जैसे लक्षणों से राहत देने के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। यह पेशाब को कम अम्लीय बनाकर काम करती है, जिससे ब्लैडर में जलन कम होती है और बैक्टीरिया के लिए अनुकूल वातावरण नहीं बनता। यह एंटीबायोटिक नहीं है, इसलिए संक्रमण के इलाज के लिए डॉक्टर द्वारा बताई गई एंटीबायोटिक के साथ ही लेनी चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के आम दुष्प्रभावों में हल्की मतली, पेट में असहजता, दस्त और प्यास लगना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन एलर्जी, मेटाबॉलिक एल्कलोसिस या शरीर में सोडियम की मात्रा बढ़ने जैसी समस्याएं हो सकती हैं। अगर आपको सूजन, सांस लेने में तकलीफ, या दिल की धड़कन अनियमित लगे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को लेने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी स्वास्थ्य समस्याओं, खासकर किडनी, हृदय या रक्तचाप की बीमारी के बारे में बताएं। दवा लेते समय भरपूर पानी पिएं। एंटासिड के साथ इस दवा को न लें, कम से कम 2 घंटे का अंतर रखें। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के इसका सेवन न करें। दवा को बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 intalka syrup Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Urinary tract infection (symptomatic relief)","description":"This medicine helps relieve burning, stinging, and frequent urination associated with urinary tract infections by alkalinizing the urine.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Uric acid kidney stones","description":"Used to alkalinize urine and help dissolve uric acid stones or prevent their formation.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Metabolic acidosis (mild)","description":"May be used to correct mild metabolic acidosis in certain clinical situations.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Chemotherapy-induced urinary irritation","description":"Sometimes used to reduce bladder irritation from certain chemotherapy drugs.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Gout","description":"May be used off-label to alkalinize urine and promote uric acid excretion in gout patients.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Cystinuria","description":"Alkalinizing urine can help prevent cystine stone formation in cystinuria.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Urinary tract infections (symptomatic relief)

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

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Disodium Hydrogen Citrate (NA)
Brand Nameintalka syrup
ManufacturerIntas Pharmaceuticals 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 freeze.
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 take this medicine after meals to minimize stomach upset.
2
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush your urinary system.
3
Do not take antacids within 2 hours of this medicine, as they can reduce its effectiveness.
4
If you have high blood pressure or heart failure, inform your doctor before taking this medicine due to its sodium content.
5
Do not use this medicine for more than 7 days without consulting your doctor.
6
If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice promptly.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Burning urination
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
Frequent urination
This medicine helps reduce frequency by alkalinizing urine.
Likely Use
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary
Joint pain
This medicine is not used for joint pain.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionDisodium hydrogen citrate is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration.
DistributionIt is distributed throughout the body as citrate and bicarbonate ions. It crosses the placenta and is excreted in breast milk.
Protein BindingNot established from the available information.
MetabolismIt is metabolized in the liver to bicarbonate and carbon dioxide.
Half-LifeNot established from the available information.
ExcretionMetabolites are excreted primarily in the urine as bicarbonate and carbon dioxide is exhaled through the lungs.
BioavailabilityNot established from the available information.
Onset of ActionThe alkalinizing effect on urine typically begins within 30 to 60 minutes after oral administration.
Peak Plasma TimeNot established from the available information.
Duration of ActionThe effect on urinary pH lasts for approximately 4 to 6 hours after a single dose.

How It Works

Disodium hydrogen citrate is a urinary alkalinizer. After absorption, it is metabolized to bicarbonate, which increases the pH of urine. This reduces the acidity of urine, thereby relieving the burning sensation during urination and creating an environment less favourable for bacterial growth. It also helps dissolve certain types of kidney stones by increasing uric acid solubility.

Mechanism Steps

1
Absorption and metabolism: Disodium hydrogen citrate is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and metabolized in the liver to bicarbonate.
2
Urinary excretion: Bicarbonate is excreted in the urine, where it neutralizes excess hydrogen ions, raising urinary pH.
3
Alkalinization effect: The increased urinary pH reduces irritation of the bladder and urethra and increases the solubility of uric acid and cystine.
4
Symptom relief: As urine becomes less acidic, symptoms such as burning and frequency are alleviated.

💡 How to Take intalka syrup

Strength: Suspension containing disodium hydrogen citrate (strength not specified).

1Shake the bottle well before each use.
2Measure the dose accurately using the measuring cup or spoon provided.
3Take the medicine with or after food to reduce stomach upset.
4Drink a full glass of water after taking the dose.
5Do not take more than the prescribed dose.
6Wash the measuring cup after each use.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is 10-15 mL of the suspension taken orally three to four times daily, after meals and at bedtime. This may vary depending on the condition being treated and your 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 sodium load and should use this medicine with caution. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on kidney function and other medical conditions. 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. Use with caution and consult your doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose should not exceed 60 mL in adults, unless otherwise directed by a doctor.

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset and nausea.
High-sodium foods
Limit intake
This medicine contains sodium; excessive intake may worsen sodium 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 intalka syrup

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food or milk to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Stomach discomfort (Common (5-10%))
Take with a meal or snack. Avoid taking on an empty stomach.
Diarrhoea (Uncommon (1-5%))
Stay hydrated. If diarrhoea is severe or persistent, contact your doctor.
Increased thirst (Uncommon (1-5%))
Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, swelling of face/lips/throat, or difficulty breathing.
Metabolic alkalosis (Rare (<0.1%))
Report symptoms like confusion, muscle twitching, or irregular heartbeat to your doctor immediately.
Hypernatremia (high sodium levels) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical advice if you notice swelling, weight gain, or increased blood pressure.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Tetany
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience muscle spasms or cramps.
Seizures
Call emergency services if seizures occur.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Antacids Major
Lithium Major
Amphetamines Major
Thiazide diuretics Moderate
Corticosteroids Moderate
Tetracyclines Minor
Fluoroquinolones Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Antacids containing aluminium or calcium
  • Lithium
  • Amphetamines

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Diuretics (e.g., thiazides)
  • Corticosteroids

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase stomach irritation and worsen 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","Uncontrolled hypertension","Hypernatremia","Metabolic alkalosis","Known hypersensitivity to citrates"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Use with caution in patients on a low-sodium diet.","Avoid long-term use without medical supervision.","Do not use to treat urinary tract infections without antibiotics if bacterial infection is confirmed.","May interfere with certain laboratory tests (e.g., urine pH, serum electrolytes).","Keep out of reach of children."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether disodium hydrogen citrate passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before use.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause metabolic alkalosis, hypernatremia, and dehydration. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. 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

General Safety

Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you have kidney problems, heart failure, high blood pressure, or any condition requiring a low-sodium diet. Do not take this medicine for longer than prescribed without medical advice. Drink plenty of water while taking this medicine to help flush your urinary system. Avoid taking antacids containing aluminium or calcium within two hours of this medicine, as they may reduce its effectiveness. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before use. Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have similar symptoms. Keep out of reach of children. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose. Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to sodium load and electrolyte imbalances. Use with caution and monitor kidney function, blood pressure, and electrolytes regularly.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

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

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

After surgery, use this medicine only if prescribed by your doctor. It may be used to alkalinize urine in certain post-operative conditions, but monitoring is required.

🦷 Dental Procedures

No specific precautions. Inform your dentist about all medicines you are taking.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily to help flush your urinary system.
🥗
Avoid holding urine for long periods; urinate when you feel the urge.
😴
Maintain good genital hygiene to prevent urinary tract infections.
💧
Limit intake of high-sodium foods to avoid fluid retention.
🧘
Include cranberry juice or other urinary-friendly foods in moderation.
🌞
Practice pelvic floor exercises to strengthen bladder muscles.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

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

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Drink plenty of water and fluids.
Limit high-sodium foods like processed snacks and pickles.
Include fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C.
Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can irritate the bladder.
Eat a balanced diet to support overall health.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine generally does not affect your ability to work or drive. However, if you experience dizziness, confusion, or muscle twitching (signs of alkalosis), avoid driving or operating heavy machinery and consult your doctor.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop taking this medicine if your symptoms resolve or as advised by your doctor. Do not stop abruptly if you are on a prolonged course without consulting your doctor. If you experience any serious side effects, stop and seek medical attention immediately.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine without medical supervision can lead to metabolic alkalosis, hypernatremia, and electrolyte imbalances. It may also increase the risk of kidney stones if not monitored. Regular monitoring of urinary pH and serum electrolytes is recommended during prolonged use. Consult your doctor for periodic evaluations.

🌿 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 bacterial adhesion.

Evidence: Limited
Antibiotics

Necessary for treating bacterial urinary tract infections.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No known interactions with vaccines. However, consult your doctor before any vaccination if you are unwell.

📦 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 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 as closely as possible. For air travel, keep it in your carry-on luggage. Check customs regulations for carrying medicines in your destination country.

💰 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 suspension three times a day after meals and drank plenty of water. Within two days, her burning sensation reduced significantly. She completed the full course of antibiotics and felt better.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine with food and staying hydrated improves tolerability and symptom relief. It should be used alongside antibiotics for infection.
👤 A 50-year-old man with a history of uric acid kidney stones
He was advised to take this medicine to alkalinize his urine and prevent stone formation. He took it regularly as prescribed and monitored his urine pH with his doctor. Over six months, his stone recurrence reduced. He also made dietary changes to reduce uric acid.
💡 Lesson: Long-term use under medical supervision can help manage uric acid stones, but regular monitoring is essential.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: The alkalinizing effect on urine typically begins within 30 to 60 minutes after taking a dose, and symptom relief may be felt within a few hours.

Q: Can I take this medicine with antibiotics?

A: Yes, it is often prescribed alongside antibiotics for urinary tract infections. However, maintain a gap of at least 2 hours between this medicine and any antacids or certain antibiotics as advised by your doctor.

Q: Is it safe during pregnancy?

A: Consult your doctor before use. The safety of this medicine during pregnancy is not well established.

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

A: Take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is almost time for your next dose. 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 intalka 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 urinary tract infections on its own.
    Fact: This medicine only relieves symptoms; it does not kill bacteria. Antibiotics are needed to treat the infection.
  • Myth: It is safe to take this medicine for a long time without doctor's advice.
    Fact: Long-term use can cause metabolic alkalosis and high sodium levels. It should be used only as prescribed.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone.
    Fact: People with kidney disease, heart failure, or high blood pressure should avoid it unless advised by a doctor.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Disodium hydrogen citrate suspension

Brand Alternatives

  • Alkapyrin suspension

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Disodium hydrogen citrate","class":"Urinary alkalinizer","main_use":"Symptomatic relief of UTI","route":"Oral"},{"medicine":"Potassium citrate","class":"Urinary alkalinizer","main_use":"Uric acid stones, UTI","route":"Oral"},{"medicine":"Sodium bicarbonate","class":"Antacid, alkalinizer","main_use":"Metabolic acidosis, UTI","route":"Oral"}]

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