Can sodium bicarbonate lower uric acid levels?
Disease description:
I have recently had elevated uric acid levels. When uric acid is high, it can cause gout, and I often experience joint pain throughout my body. Therefore, I have been trying to lower my uric acid levels. May I ask if sodium bicarbonate can help reduce uric acid?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Tiesheng
Sodium bicarbonate can lower uric acid levels.
1. Mechanism of Action:
After entering the body, sodium bicarbonate increases the concentration of bicarbonate in the plasma, thereby neutralizing hydrogen ions and improving acidosis. At the same time, it can alkalinize urine and increase the pH value of urine.
2. Clinical Application:
Sodium bicarbonate tablets are used in the treatment of hyperuricemia and gout. Especially when uric acid levels in the urine of gout patients increase and the urine pH decreases, sodium bicarbonate can alkalinize urine, promote uric acid excretion, and thus achieve the effect of lowering uric acid levels.
3. Precautions:
Sodium bicarbonate should not be taken in excessive amounts for a prolonged period to avoid symptoms of alkalosis. Patients with renal insufficiency should use sodium bicarbonate cautiously, as excessive use may cause mental symptoms, muscle pain or convulsions, unpleasant taste in mouth, slow breathing, among others.
When using sodium bicarbonate, follow medical instructions and avoid adjusting the dosage or discontinuing the medication on your own.
