Tricitrates
FDA Drug Information • Also known as: Tricitrates
- Brand Names
- Tricitrates
- Route
- ORAL
- Dosage Form
- SOLUTION
- Product Type
- HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG
Description
DESCRIPTION Tricitrates Oral Solution, USP is a stable orange colored and cherry flavored oral systemic alkalizer containing potassium citrate, sodium citrate, and citric acid in a sugar-free, non-alcoholic base. Tricitrates Oral Solution, USP contains in each teaspoonful (5 mL): Potassium Citrate Monohydrate, USP 550 mg Sodium Citrate Dihydrate, USP 500 mg Citric Acid Monohydrate, USP 334 mg Each mL contains 1 mEq potassium ion and 1 mEq sodium ion and is equivalent to 2 mEq bicarbonate (HCO 3 ). Inactive Ingredients: saccharin sodium, sodium benzoate, sorbitol solution, FD&C yellow # 6, wild cherry flavor, and purified water. ACTIONS Potassium citrate and sodium citrate are absorbed and metabolized to potassium bicarbonate and sodium bicarbonate, thus acting as systemic alkalizers. The effects are essentially those of chlorides before absorption and those of bicarbonates subsequently. Oxidation is virtually complete so that less than 5% of the citrates are excreted in the urine unchanged.
What Is Tricitrates Used For?
INDICATIONS AND ADVANTAGES Tricitrates oral solution is an effective alkalinizing agent useful in those conditions where long-term maintenance of an alkaline urine is desirable, such as in patients with uric acid and cystine calculi of the urinary tract. In addition, it is a valuable adjuvant when administered with uricosuric agents in gout therapy, since urates tend to crystallize out of an acid urine. It is also effective in correcting the acidosis of certain renal tubular disorders. This product is highly concentrated, and when administered after meals and before bedtime, allows one to maintain an alkaline urine pH around the clock, usually without the necessity of a 2 A.M. dose. This product alkalinizes the urine without producing a systemic alkalosis in recommended dosage. It is highly palatable, pleasant tasting, and tolerable, even when administered for long periods. Potassium citrate and sodium citrate do not neutralize the gastric juice or disturb digestion.
Dosage and Administration
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Tricitratesoral solution should be taken diluted in water, followed by additional water, if desired. Palatability is enhanced if chilled before taking. Usual Adult Dose 3 to 6 teaspoonfuls (15 to 30 mL), diluted in water, four times a day, after meals and at bedtime, or as directed by a physician. Usual Pediatric Dose 1 to 3 teaspoonfuls (5 to 15 mL), diluted in water, four times a day, after meals and at bedtime, or as directed by a physician. Usual Dosage Range 2 to 3 teaspoonfuls (10 to 15 mL), diluted with water, taken four times a day, will usually maintain a urinary pH of 6.5-7.4. 3 to 4 teaspoonfuls (15 to 20 mL), diluted with water, taken four times a day, will usually maintain a urinary pH of 7.0-7.6 throughout most of the 24 hours without unpleasant side effects. To check urine pH, HYDRION Paper (pH 6.0-8.0) or NITRAZINE Paper (pH 4.5-7.5) are available and easy to use.
Side Effects (Adverse Reactions)
ADVERSE REACTIONS Tricitrates oral solution is generally well tolerated without any unpleasant side effects when given in recommended doses to patients with normal renal function and urinary output. However, as with any alkalinizing agent, caution must be used in certain patients with abnormal renal mechanisms to avoid development of hyperkalemia or alkalosis, especially in the presence of hypocalcemia. Potassium intoxication causes listlessness, weakness, mental confusion, and tingling of extremities.
Contraindications
CONTRAINDICATIONS Severe renal impairment with oliguria or azotemia, untreated Addison's disease, or severe myocardial damage. In certain situations, when patients are on a sodium-restricted diet, the use of potassium citrate may be preferable; or, when patients are on a potassium-restricted diet, the use of sodium citrate may be preferable.
Overdosage
OVERDOSAGE Overdosage with sodium salts may cause diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, hypernoia, and convulsions. Overdosage with potassium salts may cause hyperkalemia and alkalosis, especially in the presence of renal disease.
How Supplied
HOW SUPPLIED Tricitrates Oral Solution, USP (orange colored, cherry flavored) is supplied in the following oral dosage form: 16 fl oz (473 mL) bottles NDC 62135-438-47 5 mL Unit-Dose Cup NDC 62135-438-05 20 Unit-Dose Cups of 5 mL NDC 62135-438-24 STORAGE Keep tightly closed. Store at controlled room temperature, 20°-25°C (68°-77°F). Protect from excessive heat and freezing. SHAKE WELL BEFORE USING. Manufactured for: Chartwell RX, LLC. Congers, NY 10920 L71160 Rev. 04/2025
About This Information
This drug information is sourced from FDA-approved labeling via the openFDA database. It is intended for educational and reference purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making decisions about medication. Drug information may be updated by the FDA; check with your pharmacist for the most current information.
What are side effects?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can occur when taking a medication. They range from mild (headache, nausea) to severe (allergic reactions, organ damage). Not everyone experiences side effects, and severity varies. Report any concerning side effects to your doctor.
What are drug interactions?
Drug interactions occur when a medication is affected by another drug, food, or supplement. Interactions can make medications less effective or cause dangerous side effects. Always tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you take.