Sodium bicarbonate - known medication, new prospects?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56782/pps.249Keywords:
bicarbonate, lactic acidosis, hyperkalemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, intracranial hypertensionAbstract
Critical conditions frequently involve disturbances in blood gas analysis and electrolyte imbalances. Sodium bicarbonate has seen expanded medical use in recent years. The European Resuscitation Council (ERC) Guidelines endorse sodium bicarbonate for hyperkalemia, malignant hyperthermia, and specific drug intoxications. Its potential roles in treating intracranial hypertension and symptomatic hyponatremia are also being explored. However, its application in emergency departments (ED) remains inconsistent, particularly in profound metabolic acidosis cases. We conducted a review of sodium bicarbonate’s therapeutic uses. The evolving understanding of sodium bicarbonate's role in emergency medicine and intensive care highlights both its potential applications and associated risks. While not universally beneficial, especially in lactic acidosis, it may aid specific patient subgroups, such as those with acute kidney injury. Its use in hyperkalemia, intracranial hypertension and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) also presents mixed results, with potential benefits in particular contexts. Further large-scale, randomized controlled trials are needed to develop precise guidelines, ensuring its safe and effective use tailored to individual patient needs.
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Copyright (c) 2024 Anna Lis, Paulina Lis, Wojciech Kaźmierski, Kinga Kocur, Katarzyna Camlet, Jakub Jurek, Mateusz Ziomek, Anna Ziobro
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