Potassium bicarbonate (also known as potassium hydrogen carbonate orpotassium acid carbonate) is a colorless, odorless, slightly basic, salty substance.
Contents
Uses
Potassium bicarbonate is a bubbly medication that is used to neutralize acid in the stomach and boost potassium levels in those whose bodies are experiencing severe potassium deficiencies. Because the body requires potassium for a number of functions, it is very important to maintain normal potassium levels.
Benefits
If a person does not have enough potassium in the body, a condition known as hypokalemia, negative symptoms can occur. These include fatigue, muscle cramping, constipation, bloating, muscle paralysis and potentially life-threatening heart rhythms, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. Taking potassium bicarbonate can help to reduce these symptoms. Potassium bicarbonate also can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of developing kidney stones.
Caution
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), potassium bicarbonate is “generally recognized as safe”. There is no evidence of human carcinogenicity, no adverse effects of overexposure, and an undetermined LD50. It is among the food additives encoded by European Union, identified by the initials E 501.
Interactions
Potassium bicarbonate can interact negatively when taken by those with certain health conditions. Tell both your physician and pharmacist any conditions you have been diagnosed with. These include kidney disorders, Addison’s disease, stomach ulcers and colitis, according to Drugs.com. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, potassium bicarbonate could potentially harm your baby.
Other names
n/a
Reference
Source: Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Potassium_bicarbonate
LiveStrong, http://www.livestrong.com/article/264243-what-is-potassium-bicarbonate/