Citralka Syrup is a medication primarily prescribed to manage conditions related to high uric acid levels in the body, such as gout and kidney stones. Its active ingredient, disodium hydrogen citrate, functions as a urinary alkalinizer. This means it works to make the urine less acidic.
How Does Citralka Syrup Work?
The core mechanism of Citralka Syrup involves its active ingredient, disodium hydrogen citrate. After ingestion, the body metabolizes this compound into bicarbonate. This bicarbonate is then excreted into the urine, which effectively raises the urinary pH, making it more alkaline (less acidic).
An acidic environment in the urine allows uric acid to crystallize and form solid deposits in the joints (causing gout) or kidneys (forming kidney stones). By making the urine more alkaline, Citralka increases the solubility of uric acid, helping to dissolve existing crystals and prevent the formation of new ones. The body can then more easily flush out the excess uric acid.
Primary Uses of Citralka Syrup
Citralka is prescribed for several medical conditions, primarily revolving around its ability to neutralize acid.
Gout: Gout is a painful form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. Citralka helps by lowering the uric acid levels in the urine, which reduces the risk of these crystals forming and can help alleviate the symptoms of a gout attack.
Kidney Stones: The syrup is effective in treating and preventing certain types of kidney stones, specifically those made of uric acid or cystine. By raising the urine's pH, it helps to dissolve these stones into smaller pieces that can be passed more easily through urination and prevents new ones from forming.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): While not an antibiotic, Citralka can provide symptomatic relief for UTIs. A common symptom of a UTI is a painful, burning sensation during urination, which is often exacerbated by acidic urine. By alkalinizing the urine, Citralka can help soothe this irritation. It may also inhibit the growth of some bacteria that thrive in an acidic environment.
Renal Tubular Acidosis (RTA): This is a condition where the kidneys are unable to properly excrete acids into the urine, causing the blood to become too acidic. Citralka helps to correct this metabolic imbalance by restoring the body's acid-base balance.
Dosage and Administration
It is crucial to follow a doctor's prescription for dosage and duration. Citralka should be taken as directed by a healthcare professional. It should be taken after meals to minimize the risk of stomach upset. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is highly recommended while on this medication to help flush the kidneys. Shake the bottle well before each use.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
Like any medication, Citralka can have side effects. Common ones include:
- Stomach pain or cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Tiredness
- Frequent urge to urinate
Patients with certain conditions should use Citralka with caution or not at all. These include individuals with severe kidney disease, high blood pressure, heart problems, or those on a sodium-restricted diet, as the medication contains sodium. It is not generally recommended for use during pregnancy. Always inform your doctor about your complete medical history and any other medications you are taking.
Citralka vs. Other Urinary Alkalizers
| Feature | Citralka | Cital |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Disodium Hydrogen Citrate | Disodium Hydrogen Citrate |
| Primary Function | Inhibits uric acid production and alkalinizes urine to prevent gout and kidney stones. | Raises the pH of urine to make it less acidic, helping the kidneys excrete excess uric acid. |
| Common Side Effects | Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, weakness, stomach pain. | Stomach pain is the most common, but also diarrhea, nausea, and frequent urination. |
Conclusion
Citralka Syrup serves as an effective urinary alkalinizer for managing and preventing conditions like gout and uric acid-based kidney stones. By raising the pH of urine, it facilitates the removal of harmful uric acid crystals from the body. While it can also offer symptomatic relief for UTIs, it is not a cure for bacterial infections. Due to potential side effects and contraindications, it is essential to use Citralka only under the guidance of a healthcare professional. For more information, consult authoritative sources such as Pfizer.
