Disodium hydrogen citrate

Urine alkaliser
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Disodium hydrogen citrate is a urine alkaliser found in 2 medicines sold in India, such as Alkasol, Citralka. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

Also called: sodium citrate alkaliser, disodium hydrogen citrate

What it is used for

Makes urine less acidic to ease burning in urine infections and help with some kidney stones.

How it works

A urine alkaliser that makes urine less acidic, easing burning in urinary infections and helping prevent some kidney stones.

How to take it

Dissolve the syrup or granules in water and take as directed, usually three times a day for a few days.

Common side effects

Mild stomach upset

Get medical help straight away if

  • Muscle weakness or palpitations (high potassium if combined)
  • Swelling (salt)

Be careful

Contains sodium; caution with heart or kidney disease and high BP.

Other medicines and interactions

Reduces the effect of nitrofurantoin. Take care with heart and kidney disease.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Ask a pharmacist; generally used only for short periods.

Brands of Disodium hydrogen citrate (2)

AlkasolCitralka

Common questions

What is Disodium hydrogen citrate used for?

Makes urine less acidic to ease burning in urine infections and help with some kidney stones.

How does Disodium hydrogen citrate work?

A urine alkaliser that makes urine less acidic, easing burning in urinary infections and helping prevent some kidney stones.

How should I take Disodium hydrogen citrate?

Dissolve the syrup or granules in water and take as directed, usually three times a day for a few days.

What are the side effects of Disodium hydrogen citrate?

Common: Mild stomach upset. Get help straight away for: Muscle weakness or palpitations (high potassium if combined), swelling (salt).

Does Disodium hydrogen citrate interact with other medicines?

Reduces the effect of nitrofurantoin. Take care with heart and kidney disease.

Is Disodium hydrogen citrate safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Ask a pharmacist; generally used only for short periods.

Does Disodium hydrogen citrate need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Disodium hydrogen citrate?

Alkasol, Citralka.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.