What Is Sodium Citrate? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Sodium Citrate is a prescription oral solution used to make the blood and urine less acidic — a process called alkalinization. It's prescribed for conditions where excess acid in the body creates health problems, most commonly kidney stones, metabolic acidosis from kidney disease, and gout. Here's everything you need to know about this medication in 2026.

What Are the Brand Names for Sodium Citrate?

Sodium Citrate and Citric Acid oral solution is sold under multiple brand names, which can be confusing for patients:

Bicitra — one of the most widely used brand names

Cytra-2 — another common brand name

Oracit — available at select pharmacies

Virtrate, Albright's Solution, Shohl's Solution — less commonly seen brand or historical names

The generic — "Sodium Citrate and Citric Acid Oral Solution USP" — is the most widely available and most affordable form. All versions contain the same active ingredients: 500 mg of sodium citrate dihydrate and 334 mg of citric acid monohydrate per 5 mL (one teaspoonful).

What Is Sodium Citrate Used For?

1. Metabolic Acidosis

Metabolic acidosis occurs when there is too much acid in the blood. It's common in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and renal tubular acidosis (RTA). Sodium Citrate is metabolized to sodium bicarbonate in the body, which neutralizes the excess acid and restores normal blood pH. This can slow CKD progression and protect overall organ function.

2. Kidney Stone Prevention

Many types of kidney stones — especially uric acid stones — form more easily in acidic urine. By raising the urine pH, Sodium Citrate makes it much harder for these crystals to form and stick together. Calcium oxalate stone prevention is also a common use, particularly in patients with hypocitraturia (low citrate in the urine), since citrate directly inhibits crystal formation.

3. Gout

Gout is caused by high uric acid levels in the blood and urine. By alkalinizing the urine, Sodium Citrate helps the kidneys excrete uric acid more efficiently, reducing the risk of gout attacks and uric acid stone formation. It is often used alongside or instead of medications like allopurinol.

4. Gastric Acid Neutralization

Sodium Citrate acts as a non-particulate gastric buffer — meaning it can rapidly neutralize stomach acid without causing particles to form. This makes it useful pre-surgically to reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonitis if stomach contents are inhaled during anesthesia.

Sodium Citrate Dosage: How Much Should I Take?

Always follow your doctor's specific instructions. The standard dosing information is:

Adults: 2 to 6 teaspoonfuls (10 to 30 mL) diluted in 1 to 3 ounces of water, 4 times daily — after meals and at bedtime

Children: 1 to 3 teaspoonfuls (5 to 15 mL) diluted in 1 to 3 ounces of water, 4 times daily — after meals and at bedtime

How to Take Sodium Citrate Correctly

Shake the bottle well before each dose

Measure your dose using a proper measuring spoon or oral syringe — not a kitchen spoon

Mix your dose in at least 4 to 6 ounces of cold water or juice and drink the mixture right away

Always take it after meals to reduce the risk of GI side effects like nausea and diarrhea

Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day

Is Sodium Citrate a Controlled Substance?

No. Sodium Citrate is not a controlled substance. It has no DEA scheduling and carries no abuse potential. It can be prescribed by any licensed prescriber — including via telehealth — and does not require a special DEA-licensed prescription form.

Where Can I Find Sodium Citrate in Stock?

Sodium Citrate can be difficult to find at all pharmacies due to its liquid formulation and limited manufacturing. medfinder can call pharmacies near you to check which ones have it in stock. For a full guide, see how to find Sodium Citrate in stock near you.