Citralka syrup is popularly used to treat uric acid-induced disorders by neutralizing it. It contains Disodium Hydrogen Citrate which is extremely effective in reducing the acidic content of urine. It is, therefore, the medicine of choice when it comes to common problems such as infection of the urinary tract. It is also often used for treating kidney stones. Citralka is a product created and marketed by Pharmacia India (Pfizer).
Uses and Benefits of Citralka Syrup:
- Urinary Tract Infection- Citralka is often used to address this common disorder.
- Kidney Stones- Kidney Stones are also an extremely common medical problem and this syrup is used as a recommended drug to fight it.
- Urine alkalization- Since this has neutralization properties; it is prescribed by doctors when alkalization of a patient’s urine is necessary.
- Gout – It is common knowledge that Gout is triggered by excessive levels of Uric Acid and Citralka can often help the patient get relief from the extreme pain caused by gout.
- Removal of excess acid in blood and Urine- When the level of acid in blood and urine reaches alarming levels, Citralka is used to control, regulate, and bring down uric acid to acceptable levels.
- Burning Micturition- In the case of burning micturition, Citralka is known to provide immediate and effective relief.
- Effects of antioxidants- Citralka is known to improve effects of antioxidants in the system.
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Side Effects of Citralka Syrup:
Citralka is known to cause certain side effects such as stomach irritation and stomach cramps. In certain cases, it can also trigger anxiety. Citralka can also be a cause for Diarrhea.
One of the most common side effects caused by this medicine is flatulence. In certain patients, it induces a sense of fatigue and tiredness. It is also known to be a catalyst when it comes to Gastric Ulcers.
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Common Dosage of Citralka Syrup:
The quantity and the dosage of Citralka should be prescribed by the concerned physician. It is usually advised that the is taken with food or immediately after the patient consumes food. The effects of the medicine start to show within the first few minutes and can often last up to a period of 5 to 6 hours.
The syrup comes in the form of syrup in a 100 ml bottle and is to be consumed orally. The dosage is usually 2 ml taken thrice a day for infants and younger children. Older children take 5 ml as the dosage and adults have 15 ml to 30 ml with water.
Citralka dose for adults
The usual recommended dosage of Citralka for adults is 15 to 30 ml a day (in divided doses). However, the dosage may vary with the severity of the condition being treated, BMI of the patient, age of patients, the mental status of the patient, and other underlying health concerns. Hence, it is advised to consult a doctor to know the appropriate dosage of Citralka.
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Composition and Nature of Citralka Syrup:
Citralka contains Disodium Hydrogen Citrate (1.53 GM per 5ml) as an active ingredient. The strength of this salt may vary in different variations of the same tablet.
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Warnings and Precautions When to Avoid Citralka Syrup:
Patients suffering from kidney and liver diseases must consult a physician before consuming this medicine. It is not advisable to take this medicine based on suggestions from a relative or a friend and similarly, this medicine should not be suggested to anyone just because they have similar symptoms.
It is recommended that the patient checks the expiry date of the package while buying the medicine from a pharmacy. The syrup must be stored at room temperature, and direct contact with excessive heat or sunlight must be avoided. It must be noted that this syrup is not a permanent cure and is used to provide short-term relief to the patient.
It is recommended that the Syrup is not consumed while the patient is on an empty stomach as this might immediately cause acid reflux.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women are specifically advised to consult a doctor before taking this medicine. Similar precautions must be followed by people suffering from hypertension and hypersensitivity. The medicine can cause conflicts with people who suffer from heart problems and dehydration. Patients with a history of high potassium levels must also exercise caution.
In case of high blood pressure, respiratory difficulties, and swelling of the ankles after consuming the medicine, a doctor should be immediately consulted. This syrup should be avoided in the case of an acute bacterial infection.
Substitutes for Citralka Syrup:
Some of the known substitutes of Citralka Syrup are:
- Adialka 100 ml Syrup Tablet manufactured by Cian Health Care
- Alkakem 100 ml Syrup manufactured by Alkem
- Alkomni 100 ml Syrup manufactured by Cipla
- Intalka 100 ml Liquid manufactured by Intas
- Onestone 100 ml Syrup manufactured by Ontex Healthcare
Citralka Interactions with Other Drugs:
It is not recommended for patients with renal impairment to use this drug t since it might worsen their condition. A suitable substitute should be used in consultation with the supervising physician. It might cause adverse effects in patients who do not take it with sufficient amount of water. Electrolyte monitoring is strictly recommended for patients taking this medicine.
It can have conflicts with the following medicines:
- Corticosteroids
- Ephedrine
- Barbiturates
- Amphetamines
- Methotrexates
- Potassium depleting Diuretics
- Pseudoephedrine
- Quinidine
- Salicylates
- Tetracyclines
How Citralka Syrup Works?
Disodium Hydrogen Citrate is the primary ingredient in Citralka and the Syrup comes from a drug group known as Urinary Alkalinizers. Disodium Hydrogen Citrate is an acidic salt of citric acid that is alkaline and therefore it neutralizes the excess amount of uric acid in blood and urine. It results in increased excretion of excessive uric acid through urine.
FAQ’s
1) What to do if one misses a dose of Citralka?
Ans: In case one misses a dosage, it is advisable to take it as soon as one notices it. If the time is closer to that of the next dose, skip the dose is recommended. Double dosage can have adverse side effects.
2) What to do in the case of an overdose?
Ans: Contact a physician immediately. An overdose can have severe side effects if it is not treated quickly.
3) Can one drive after taking the Citralka Syrup?
Ans: It is not recommended to, since the syrup can cause drowsiness and blurred vision. It is also known to impair thinking for a limited period of time.
4) Can the Citralka Syrup be taken with alcohol?
Ans: It is not advisable, since alcohol can reduce the medicine’s effectiveness. In any case, it is recommended that alcohol consumption remains limited to three glasses a day.
5) What is Citralka used for?
Ans: Citralka is a urinary alkalizer that is primarily used to neutralize acidic urine. By neutralizing the acidic urine, the drug helps get rid of uric acid in kidneys, thereby preventing gout and some types of kidney stones such as urate. This medicine may also be used to treat and prevent certain metabolic problems (acidosis) caused by kidney disease.
6) How to use Citralka Syrup?
Ans: Citralka should be consumed in accordance with the instructions prescribed by a doctor or the patient should follow the directions prescribed on the label. One must not increase or decrease the dosage without consulting the doctor. Citralka should be taken orally, preferably with food or immediately after food for better absorption.
7) Citralka Syrup for frequent urination.
Ans: As Citralka has been reported to produce excessive urine, its use should be avoided by the patients suffering from frequent urination. It may worsen the condition of the patient.
8) Can Citralka Syrup be administered to treat kidney stones?
Ans: Yes, Citralka can be administered to treat kidney stones. It is a urinary alkalizer that neutralizes acidic urine and helps eliminate uric acid from the kidneys, thereby preventing certain types of kidney stones (urate).
