Drug Cards

Sodium Bicarbonate 8.4%

Class:
Buffer, alkalinizer.
Mechanism of Action:
Reacts with hydrogen ions to form water and carbon dioxide thereby acting as a buffer for metabolic acidosis.
Indications:
  • Hyperkalemia
  • TCA overdose
  • Phenobarbital overdose
  • Known pre-existing bicarbonate-responsive acidosis.
  • Upon return of spontaneous circulation after long arrest interval.
  • Alkalinization for treatment of specific intoxications.
Contraindications:
  • Metabolic and respiratory alkalosis.
  • Hypocalcemia and hypokalemia.
  • Hypocloremia secondary to GI loss and vomiting.
Adverse reactions:
  • Metabolic alkalosis, hypokalemia, hyperosmolarity, fluid overload.
  • Increase in tissue acidosis.
  • Electrolyte imbalance and tetany, seizures.
  • Tissue sloughing at injection site.
Drug Interactions
  • May precipitate in Calcium solutions.
  • Vasopressors may be deactivated.
Adult Dosage and Administration
1 mEq / kg IV; may repeat with 0.5 mEq / kg every 10 minutes.
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Pediatric Dosage and Administration:
Same as for adult.
Duration of Action
  • Onset: 2-10 minutes.
  • Peak effect: 15-20 minutes.
  • Duration: 30-60 minutes.
Special Considerations:
  • Pregnancy safety: Category C.
  • Must ventilate patient after administration.
  • Intracellular acidosis may be worsened by production of carbon dioxide.
  • May worsen CHF (congestive heart failure).