Can sodium bicarbonate still be used if its physical properties have changed?

　　Sodium bicarbonate should generally not be used further after any change in its physical or chemical properties. Detailed analysis is as follows:

　　When sodium bicarbonate undergoes a change in its characteristics, this typically indicates that its physical or chemical properties may have changed. Such changes could be caused by improper storage conditions, such as high temperature, humidity, expiration, contamination, or other unknown factors. Characteristic changes may manifest as alterations in color, shape, texture, smell, etc.

　　In such cases, continued use of altered sodium bicarbonate may increase the risk of adverse drug reactions, reduce the drug's effectiveness, and could even potentially harm the patient's health. Therefore, if any change in the characteristics of sodium bicarbonate is observed, its use should be immediately discontinued, and medical or pharmaceutical advice should be sought promptly.

　　When using sodium bicarbonate, patients should strictly follow the storage conditions and usage instructions provided with the medication to ensure it is used within its expiration date.

　　[References]

　　[1] Wen Xuegui, Li Jinru. Decomposition Test and Storage Requirements of Sodium Bicarbonate Products [J]. Soda Industry, 2020, (04):15-16.

　　[2] Yu Zhongguo. What Are the Signals of Deteriorated Medication? [J]. Health Care for the Middle-Aged and Elderly, 2015, (04):41.