SODIUM BICARBONATE

Question 1

Generic/Trade Name

SODIUM BICARBONATE

Answer 1

SODIUM BICARBONATE

Question 2

SODIUM BICARBONATE

Drug Classification:

Answer 2

Alkalinizing agent

electrolyte

Question 3

SODIUM BICARBONATE

Mechanism of Action:

Answer 3

• Alkaline electrolyte that buffers excess H+
• H⁺ + HCO₃^- ⇔ H₂CO₃ ⇔ H₂O + CO₂

Question 4

SODIUM BICARBONATE

Pharmacokinetics

Answer 4

• Onset of Action = 0 minutes (immediate)
• Peak Effects < 15 minutes
• Duration of Effect = 1-2 hours
• Half-Life = N/A

Question 5

SODIUM BICARBONATE

Indications & Contraindications

Answer 5

Indications/Field Use:
• Metabolic acidosis (e.g., ASA OD, DKA); NOT respiratory acidosis
• Tricyclic antidepressant OD (Induce alkaline environment to prevent drug absorption)

Contraindications:
An already alkaline environment such as TUMS OD, cardiac arrest

Question 6

SODIUM BICARBONATE

Side Effects/Adverse Reactions:

Answer 6

None in emergency setting

Question 7

SODIUM BICARBONATE

Adult & Pedi Dose:

Answer 7

1mEq/kg (initial) IV, IO

*mEq = milliequivalent, is the unit of measure for electrolytes*

Question 8

SODIUM BICARBONATE

Precautions:

Answer 8

Causes metabolic alkalosis when administered in large quantities

Question 9

SODIUM BICARBONATE

Drug-Drug Interactions:

Answer 9

Deactivates catecholamines and vasopressors

Reacts with CaCl2 to form PPT (in IV tubing)