Evidence supporting the use of: Bicarbonate
For the health condition: Kidney Stones

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Bicarbonate (usually in the form of sodium bicarbonate or potassium bicarbonate) is scientifically validated as a supportive treatment in certain types of kidney stones, particularly uric acid and cystine stones. The mechanism of action relies on bicarbonate's ability to alkalinize the urine. Uric acid and cystine stones form more readily in acidic urine; by increasing urinary pH, bicarbonate reduces the crystallization of these substances, thus decreasing stone formation and sometimes even aiding in the dissolution of existing stones.

Clinical guidelines, such as those from the American Urological Association, recommend urinary alkalinization with agents like potassium citrate or sodium bicarbonate as standard therapy for patients with uric acid stones or cystinuria. Multiple clinical trials and observational studies indicate that bicarbonate therapy, when properly monitored, is effective in raising urinary pH, reducing stone recurrence, and improving patient outcomes. However, bicarbonate is not effective for all kidney stone types; for example, it may worsen risk for calcium phosphate stones by making the urine too alkaline.

The evidence base is robust for uric acid and cystine stones, with systematic reviews and decades of clinical practice supporting its use. Adverse effects, such as metabolic alkalosis or increased sodium load (with sodium bicarbonate), are potential risks and necessitate monitoring by healthcare providers. In summary, bicarbonate is a scientifically supported, first-line adjunctive therapy for specific kidney stone types.

More about bicarbonate
More about Kidney Stones

Products containing bicarbonate

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.