krate syrup - Citric Acid (334mg/5ml) + Potassium Citrate (1100mg/5ml) medicine

K-Cit Oral Solution: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Zegchem 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 26, 2026
⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
12 min read
Evidence: Well-established for approved indications.
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

  • Muscle weakness or paralysis
  • Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
  • Severe nausea or vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down
  • Confusion or difficulty concentrating
  • Swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Blood in urine or severe flank pain
  • Decreased urine output

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is krate syrup used for?

This medicine is an oral solution of citric acid and potassium citrate used to prevent and treat uric acid and cystine kidney stones by making urine less acidic. It is also used for distal renal tubular acidosis. It should be taken after meals and at bedtime with plenty of water, exactly as prescribed.

  • Generic Name: Citric Acid (334mg/5ml) + Potassium Citrate (1100mg/5ml)
  • Manufacturer: Zegchem
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 krate syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा सिट्रिक एसिड और पोटैशियम सिट्रेट का मिश्रण है जो पेशाब को कम अम्लीय बनाती है। इसका उपयोग यूरिक एसिड और सिस्टीन की पथरी को रोकने और उनके इलाज में किया जाता है। यह डिस्टल रीनल ट्यूबुलर एसिडोसिस में भी मदद करती है। इसे डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार भोजन के बाद और रात को सोने से पहले पानी के साथ लें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में जी मिचलाना, उल्टी, दस्त, पेट में गड़बड़ी और स्वाद में कड़वाहट शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में पोटैशियम का बढ़ना, मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी, अनियमित धड़कन और एलर्जी शामिल हो सकते हैं। अगर ऐसे लक्षण दिखें तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। इसे हमेशा भोजन के बाद और भरपूर पानी के साथ लें। पोटैशियम सप्लीमेंट या नमक के विकल्प बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के न लें। नियमित रूप से खून और पेशाब की जांच कराते रहें। गुर्दे, हृदय या एड्रेनल की बीमारी हो तो डॉक्टर को बताएं।

💡 Did You Know? Over 80% of the antiretroviral drugs used globally to combat AIDS are supplied by Indian pharmaceutical companies.

💊 krate syrup Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Uric acid kidney stones","description":"This medicine helps dissolve and prevent uric acid stones by making urine less acidic.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Cystine kidney stones","description":"It increases urine pH, which helps dissolve cystine stones and prevents new ones from forming.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Distal renal tubular acidosis","description":"It corrects metabolic acidosis and helps prevent kidney stones and bone problems associated with this condition.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Hyperuricosuria","description":"It reduces the risk of uric acid stone formation in people who excrete too much uric acid in urine.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Chemotherapy-induced hyperuricemia","description":"Sometimes used to alkalinize urine and prevent uric acid precipitation during tumor lysis syndrome.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy","description":"Occasionally used off-label to alkalinize urine before certain imaging procedures, but evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Chronic metabolic acidosis in chronic kidney disease","description":"May be used off-label to correct mild metabolic acidosis in some patients with chronic kidney disease.","evidence":"Limited"}]

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

Also treats: Distal renal tubular acidosis, Hyperuricosuria, Metabolic acidosis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Citric Acid (334mg/5ml) + Potassium Citrate (1100mg/5ml)
Brand Namekrate syrup
ManufacturerZegchem
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassUROLOGY
Action Class
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a tightly closed container. Protect from direct sunlight and moisture.
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 and at bedtime with a full glass of water to reduce stomach upset.
2
Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to help the medicine work better and prevent dehydration.
3
Avoid potassium supplements and salt substitutes containing potassium unless your doctor approves.
4
Keep all appointments for blood and urine tests to monitor potassium levels and urine pH.
5
Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, heart disease, or adrenal problems before starting this medicine.
6
Do not stop or change the dose without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Kidney stones
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Metabolic acidosis
This medicine helps correct acidosis.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionCitrate salts are rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration.
DistributionCitrate is distributed throughout the body and is taken up by tissues, especially liver, kidney, and bone.
Protein BindingNot established from the available information.
MetabolismCitrate is metabolized primarily in the liver and other tissues to bicarbonate and carbon dioxide.
Half-LifeNot established from the available information.
ExcretionCitrate and its metabolites are excreted mainly in urine and to a lesser extent in expired air as carbon dioxide.
BioavailabilityNot established from the available information.
Onset of ActionUrine alkalinization begins within 1 to 2 hours after oral administration.
Peak Plasma TimeNot established from the available information.
Duration of ActionThe effect on urine pH lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours after a single dose.

How It Works

This medicine works by supplying citrate salts that are metabolized to bicarbonate in the body. Bicarbonate neutralizes excess acid, raising blood and urine pH. Potassium citrate also directly increases urinary citrate, which binds calcium and inhibits crystal formation. The combined effect reduces the risk of uric acid and cystine stone formation and helps correct metabolic acidosis.

Mechanism Steps

1
Absorption of citrate salts: Citric acid and potassium citrate are absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream.
2
Metabolism to bicarbonate: Citrate is metabolized in the liver and other tissues to bicarbonate, which acts as a buffer.
3
Alkalinization of blood and urine: Bicarbonate neutralizes excess hydrogen ions, raising blood pH and increasing urinary pH.
4
Increased urinary citrate: Potassium citrate increases the amount of citrate excreted in urine, which inhibits crystal formation.
5
Prevention of stone formation: Higher urine pH and citrate levels dissolve uric acid and cystine stones and prevent new stones from forming.

💡 How to Take krate syrup

Strength: Each 5 mL contains Citric Acid 334 mg and Potassium Citrate 1100 mg.

1Shake the bottle well before each use.
2Measure the prescribed dose using the provided measuring cup or spoon.
3Mix the dose with a full glass of water or juice as directed.
4Take after meals and at bedtime unless otherwise instructed.
5Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
6Do not take on an empty stomach to reduce stomach upset.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is 15 to 30 mL of this oral solution mixed with a full glass of water or juice, taken after meals and at bedtime. The exact dose and frequency depend on the condition being treated, your urine pH, and your kidney function. 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 effects of this medicine, especially regarding potassium levels. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on renal function and other factors.
Renal ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be needed based on kidney function. Consult your doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is established for hepatic impairment. Consult your doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose is 30 mL per day, but this may vary based on medical condition and doctor's prescription.

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With meals
Take after meals
Reduces stomach upset and improves tolerability.
High-potassium foods
Moderate intake
May increase potassium levels.
Salt substitutes with potassium
Avoid
Can cause dangerous hyperkalemia.

⏰ 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 krate syrup

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food or a full glass of water. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Vomiting (Common (5-10%))
Sip clear fluids and take the medicine with meals. Contact your doctor if vomiting continues.
Diarrhea (Common (5-10%))
Stay hydrated. If diarrhea is severe or lasts more than 2 days, call your doctor.
Stomach upset (Common (5-10%))
Take after meals. Avoid taking on an empty stomach.
Unpleasant taste (Common (5-10%))
Mix with a flavored beverage if approved by your doctor. Rinse mouth after taking.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Hyperkalemia (high potassium) (Uncommon (1-2%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or confusion.
Metabolic alkalosis (Rare (<0.1%))
Contact your doctor if you have persistent nausea, confusion, or muscle twitching.
Severe allergic reaction (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop the medicine and get emergency help if you have rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Kidney stones (calcium phosphate)
Report flank pain or blood in urine to your doctor immediately.
Cardiac arrhythmia
Seek emergency care if you feel palpitations, dizziness, or fainting.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Spironolactone Major
Lisinopril Major
Potassium chloride Major
Aluminum hydroxide Moderate
Ascorbic acid Moderate
Lithium Minor
Amphetamine Minor
Methenamine Moderate
Salicylates Moderate
ACE inhibitors Major

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, amiloride)
  • ACE inhibitors and ARBs
  • Potassium supplements

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Antacids containing aluminum
  • Urinary acidifiers (e.g., ascorbic acid, methenamine)
  • Salicylates

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may worsen dehydration and increase the risk of stomach upset. It is best to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hyperkalemia","Severe renal impairment","Active urinary tract infection","Adrenal insufficiency","Severe dehydration","Potassium-restricted diet"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Use with caution in patients with kidney disease.","Monitor potassium levels regularly.","Avoid potassium supplements.","Do not use if you have difficulty urinating.","Consult doctor before use in pregnancy or breastfeeding."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

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

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose can cause hyperkalemia, which may lead to muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, and cardiac arrest. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment includes stopping the medicine, monitoring potassium levels, and giving appropriate therapy as directed 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

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Mix each dose with a full glass of water or juice as directed, and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Do not take potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium unless your doctor approves. Avoid taking this medicine with antacids that contain aluminum or with certain diuretics that can raise potassium. Keep all follow-up appointments for blood and urine tests. Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, heart disease, adrenal problems, or diabetes. Do not use this medicine if you are dehydrated or have a urinary tract infection without consulting your doctor. Store it properly and keep it out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more prone to hyperkalemia and kidney problems. Regular monitoring of potassium and renal function is advised. Dose adjustment may be necessary.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor before continuing this medicine. The safety in pregnancy is not well established, and your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may need to be temporarily stopped before surgery, especially if you have kidney or heart issues.

🦷 Dental Procedures

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

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Drink at least 2 to 3 liters of water daily to help prevent kidney stones.
🥗
Limit foods high in oxalates such as spinach, nuts, and chocolate if you are prone to calcium oxalate stones.
😴
Reduce sodium intake to help lower urinary calcium excretion.
💧
Maintain a healthy weight through balanced diet and regular exercise.
🧘
Avoid excessive animal protein, which can increase uric acid levels.
🌞
Follow up regularly with your doctor for monitoring.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

There are no specific exercise restrictions while taking this medicine. However, if you experience muscle weakness or fatigue, avoid strenuous activities and consult your doctor.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Stay well hydrated with water and citrus juices.
Include fruits and vegetables rich in citrate.
Limit high-purine foods like red meat and shellfish.
Reduce salt and processed food intake.
Avoid excessive vitamin C supplements without doctor's advice.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine is unlikely to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or muscle weakness, avoid these activities until you feel better.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping suddenly may increase the risk of stone formation or worsen metabolic acidosis. Your doctor will decide when it is safe to stop based on your condition and test results.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is generally safe when monitored appropriately. Regular blood tests are needed to check potassium levels and kidney function. Prolonged high doses may increase the risk of hyperkalemia or metabolic alkalosis. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response and test results.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Increased water intake

Drinking plenty of water helps prevent kidney stones and complements medicine.

Evidence: Well-established
Dietary changes

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

Evidence: Well-established
Potassium citrate tablets

An alternative formulation for those who prefer tablets.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific vaccine interactions are known. Continue routine vaccinations as recommended by your doctor.

📦 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 it at room temperature and protect it from direct sunlight. If traveling across time zones, adjust your dosing schedule gradually in consultation with your doctor. Keep enough supply for your entire trip. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 50-year-old man with recurrent uric acid kidney stones
He was prescribed this medicine after experiencing multiple stone episodes. He took it regularly after meals and increased his water intake. Over six months, his urine pH improved and he did not form new stones. He noted that taking it with food helped prevent nausea.
💡 Lesson: Consistent use with meals and good hydration can effectively prevent stone recurrence.
👤 A 35-year-old woman with distal renal tubular acidosis
She started this medicine to correct metabolic acidosis. She experienced mild stomach upset initially, which resolved after taking it with breakfast and dinner. Regular blood tests showed improved bicarbonate levels and no hyperkalemia.
💡 Lesson: Taking the medicine with food improves tolerability, and regular monitoring is essential for safety.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts alkalinizing urine within 1 to 2 hours after a dose. However, it may take several weeks to see full benefits in preventing stones.

Q: Can I take this medicine with other medications?

A: Some medicines can interact with this product, especially those affecting potassium levels. Always inform your doctor about all medicines you take.

Q: Is it safe to take during pregnancy?

A: Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. The safety profile is not well established.

🤔 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 krate 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 dissolve all types of kidney stones.
    Fact: It is effective mainly for uric acid and cystine stones, not for calcium oxalate stones.
  • Myth: You can take this medicine without monitoring.
    Fact: Regular blood and urine tests are needed to monitor potassium and pH levels.
  • Myth: This medicine is a painkiller.
    Fact: It does not relieve pain; it works by altering urine chemistry.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Potassium citrate and citric acid oral solution

Brand Alternatives

  • K-Cit Oral Solution

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","composition":"Citric acid + Potassium citrate","use":"Urinary alkalinizer","notes":"Contains potassium"},{"medicine":"Sodium citrate","composition":"Sodium citrate","use":"Urinary alkalinizer","notes":"Contains sodium, may be preferred in some patients"}]

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