What is Numark Sodium Bicarbonate BP?
Numark Sodium Bicarbonate BP is an indigestion remedy which can also be used to soothe irritation caused by insect bites or sunburn. It helps to ease symptoms of indigestion, like heartburn, bloating, and wind, after you’ve eaten, so you can enjoy your food without having to worry about indigestion.
What causes indigestion?
Indigestion is a common problem that most people will experience at least once in their lives. It happens after eating and drinking, and can be caused by certain foods, medicines, or smoking. When you have indigestion, some of the most common symptoms you’ll experience include:
- Heartburn or acid reflux, causing a burning sensation in the chest
- Bloating
- Feeling sick
- Wind (flatulence, burping)
- Bringing up your food or bitter tasting liquid
How will Numark Sodium Bicarbonate help to ease my indigestion?
Numark Sodium Bicarbonate BP helps to ease indigestion by working as an antacid, which means that it neutralises your stomach acid. This turns stomach acid into harmless substances like water, keeping them from irritating your stomach lining and food pipe, easing your symptoms.
What else can I use this product for?
Sodium bicarbonate can also be used to soothe irritation caused by insect bites, and if you have sunburn. It helps to ease itching and irritation in your skin, so you can feel more comfortable and won’t damage your skin further by scratching the irritated area.
Can I take this product if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
You should not take sodium bicarbonate if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless you are advised to do so by your doctor. If you are suffering with indigestion during pregnancy, speak to your doctor or pharmacist so they can recommend a suitable remedy for you.
Can I take this product if I’m taking any other medication?
If you’re taking any other medication, you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product. This especially applies if you are taking:
- Adrenaline hydrochloride, which is used for severe allergic reactions
- Carmustine, which is used in cancer treatment
- Glycopyrronium bromide, which is used to reduce saliva secretion
- Isoprenaline hydrochloride, digoxin, or dipyridamole, which are used for heart conditions
- Suxamethonium chloride, which is used as a muscle relaxant
- Lithium, which is used for manic depression
- Lansoprazole, which is used for healing ulcers
- Levothyroxine, which is used to treat an underactive thyroid
- Mycophenalate, which is used to stop transplant rejection
- Rosuvastatin, which is used to control cholesterol
- Chloroquine, which is used for malaria
- Hydrochloroquine, which is used for arthritis
- Penicillamine, which is used for rheumatoid arthritis
- Nilotinib, which is used to treat leukaemia
- Fexofenadine, which is used as an antihistamine
- Deflazacort, which is used as a corticosteroid for inflammation
- Gabapentin or phenytoin, which is used to treat epilepsy
- Sulpiride or phenothiazine tranquillisers, which are used for schizophrenia
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (also known as NSAIDs) e.g. aspirin, ibuprofen, diflunisal
- ACE inhibitors which are used for heart failure or high blood pressure, e.g. captopril, enalapril
- Antibacterials which are used for infections, e.g. benzyl penicillin potassium, tetracyclines, rifampicin
- Antifungals which are used for fungal infections such as thrush and athlete’s foot, e.g. itraconazole, ketoconazole
- Antivirals which is used for viral infections, e.g. atazanavir, tipranavir
- Bisphosphonates, which are used for osteoporosis
How to take this product for indigestion
If you’re using this medication to ease indigestion, dissolve 1 – 5g of this product in a glass of warm water. Drink the solution right away.
How to use this product for bites and sunburn
If you’re using this medication to soothe insect bites or sunburn, dissolve a 5ml spoonful in 1 pint (568ml) of warm water. Apply the solution to the affected skin with cotton will or lint.
When should this product not be used?
Numark Sodium Bicarbonate BP is not suitable for use in children under the age of 12. Do not use this product if you are allergic to sodium bicarbonate. You should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product if you are on a low sodium (salt) diet, as this product contains 1.37g of sodium in each 5g dose. Do not take this product if you have:
- High levels of alkali in your blood
- Low levels of calcium in your blood
- Reduced stomach acid
- Heart failure
- Kidney problems
- Liver problems
- High blood pressure
- Are taking steroids
Does this medication have any side effects?
Like all medication, Numark Sodium Bicarbonate BP can have side effects, although not everyone will experience them. These include:
- Stomach cramps
- Wind (flatulence)
- Increased blood pressure
- Increased potassium in your blood
- Fluid retention
- Fluid in the lungs
If you experience these or any other side effects while using this product, stop use and speak to your doctor or pharmacist. For more information about reporting the side effects of medication, please see the MHRA’s Yellow Card Scheme.
How to store this product
Store in a cool, dry place which is below 25 degrees C. Do not use if the expiry date printed on the original packaging has passed. Once opened, use within 1 month. Keep out of sight and reach of children.
Important information
This product is a medicine; make sure to speak to your doctor or Chemist 4 U pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical problem or are taking any other medicine or complementary therapy. If your symptoms get worse or continue after taking this product, contact us or your doctor. For medical services in your area, please refer to https://www.nhs.uk
If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, speak to your doctor or our pharmacist before taking this product. If you suffer from any allergies, ask your doctor or our pharmacist if this medicine is right for you.
Store all medicines out of sight and reach of children.
Please read the included leaflet carefully before using this product.
Please contact your GP if appropriate regarding this product.
Helpful Advice on Medication Restrictions & Addiction
For further information on our medication restrictions policy, please click here.
If you are concerned about addiction to 'over the counter' medication, we urge you to visit the below links for professional help and advice:
