Citric acid: Uses, How It Works, Medicines
Citric acid is a mild food acid found in citrus fruit. In effervescent powders and tablets it is mixed with sodium bicarbonate so that the product fizzes when dissolved in water. It is not itself an antacid.
Also known as: Citric acid anhydrous, Fruit acid, Effervescent acid
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How does Citric acid work?
When the dry powder meets water, citric acid reacts with sodium bicarbonate and gives off carbon dioxide, which makes the fizz. Any extra bicarbonate left over then acts as an antacid.
Who should be careful
- The sodium in effervescent products matters for people on a low-salt diet or with heart, kidney or blood pressure problems
- Let the fizzing settle before drinking, as the label says
Type of medicine
Citric acid belongs to this type of medicine.
Medicines that contain Citric acid
These medicines sold in India contain Citric acid. They are listed A to Z, not ranked.
- ENO · VERIFY on pack effervescent powder (fruit salt), dissolved in water
What is Citric acid used for?
Combination medicines that contain Citric acid are used for these conditions.
Other medicines of the same type
These active ingredients are of the same type as Citric acid.
Common questions
Why is citric acid in effervescent antacids?
It reacts with sodium bicarbonate in water to make the fizz and to dissolve the powder as a drink. The antacid action comes from the bicarbonate that remains in excess. Check the pack for the exact amounts.
Sources
- Sodium bicarbonate antacid tablets: OTC drug label (updated 12/2023). DailyMed, US National Library of Medicine
- Antacids. NHS (UK)