Sodium citrate

Expectorant and alkaliser
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Sodium citrate is a expectorant and alkaliser found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Benadryl Cough Formula. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Helps thin mucus in cough syrups.

How it works

In cough syrups it is used as a soothing expectorant; in urine alkaliser sachets it makes urine less acidic.

How to take it

Take as directed on the pack; dissolve sachets fully in water.

Common side effects

  • Stomach upset
  • Mild diarrhoea

Get medical help straight away if

  • Swelling of the legs or breathlessness (salt and fluid build-up)
  • Muscle weakness

Be careful

Caution in people on a low-salt diet.

Other medicines and interactions

Adds sodium, so take care with heart failure, high blood pressure and kidney disease.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Generally considered acceptable for short use; ask a pharmacist.

Combination medicines that contain Sodium citrate (1)

Benadryl Cough Formula

Common questions

What is Sodium citrate used for?

Helps thin mucus in cough syrups.

How does Sodium citrate work?

In cough syrups it is used as a soothing expectorant; in urine alkaliser sachets it makes urine less acidic.

How should I take Sodium citrate?

Take as directed on the pack; dissolve sachets fully in water.

What are the side effects of Sodium citrate?

Common: Stomach upset, mild diarrhoea. Get help straight away for: Swelling of the legs or breathlessness (salt and fluid build-up), muscle weakness.

Does Sodium citrate interact with other medicines?

Adds sodium, so take care with heart failure, high blood pressure and kidney disease.

Is Sodium citrate safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Generally considered acceptable for short use; ask a pharmacist.

Does Sodium 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 Sodium citrate?

Benadryl Cough Formula.

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.