Sodium Bicarbonate

Question 1

Brand Name

Answer 1

Sodium Bicarbonate

Question 2

Drug Class

Answer 2

Electrolyte/Alkalinizing Agent

Question 3

Mechanism of Action

Answer 3

NaHCO3 disassociates, HCO3 picks up excess hydrogen ions to form H2CO3
Then breaks apart to H2O and CO2

Question 4

Indications

Answer 4

Acidosis, OD on highly acidic agents, such as TCA’s aspirin, and phenobarbital
Combats hyperkalemia and acidosis seen in crush injuries

Question 5

Contraindications

Answer 5

Alkalosis, hypokalemia, electrolyte imbalances due to severe vomiting or diarrhea

Question 6

Adverse Effects

Answer 6

Hypernatremia, alkalosis, cellulitis or necrosis @ injection site, seizures, fluid retention, hypokalemia, tetany, peripheral edema

Question 7

Precautions

Answer 7

May deactivate sympathomimetics, increase effects of amphetamines, decrease effects of benzodiazepines and TCA’s

Question 8

Dose and Administration

Answer 8

1mEq/kg slow IVP

May repeat @ 10 mins @0.5mEq/kg