Locations:

Citric Acid; Gluconolactone; Magnesium Carbonate Bladder Irrigation

What is this medication?

CITRIC ACID; GLUCONOLACTONE; MAGNESIUM CARBONATE (SIH trik AS id; glu CO no LAC tone; mag NEE zee um KAR bon ate) treats bladder stones. It may also be used to prevent blockages in the tube that drains urine from the bladder. It works by making your urine more acidic, which prevents the build up of calcium.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Renacidin

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • High levels of magnesium or phosphorus in the blood
  • Kidney disease
  • Trouble passing urine
  • Urinary tract infection (UTI)
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to citric acid, gluconolactone, magnesium carbonate, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breastfeeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is infused into the bladder. It can be given by your care team in a hospital or clinic setting. It may also be given at home.

If you get this medication at home, you will be taught how to prepare and give it. Use it as directed on the prescription label. Keep using it unless your care team tells you to stop.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you get this medication at the hospital or clinic: It is important not to miss your dose. Call your care team if you are not able to keep your appointment.

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If you get this medication at home: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

  • Antacids, laxatives, and supplements containing magnesium

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medication. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

You may need blood work done while you are using this medication.

This medication contains magnesium and may cause high levels of magnesium in the blood. Many over-the-counter medications contain magnesium. It is important to read labels carefully. Talk to your care team about all the medications you take. They can tell you what is safe to take together.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • High magnesium level—confusion, drowsiness, facial flushing, redness, sweating, muscle weakness, fast or irregular heartbeat, trouble breathing
  • High phosphorus level—muscle pain or cramps, bone or joint pain, numbness and tingling around the mouth
  • Kidney injury—decrease in the amount of urine, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet
  • Urinary tract infection (UTI)—burning when passing urine, passing frequent small amounts of urine, bloody or cloudy urine, pain in the lower back or sides

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Bladder irritation

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

  • Take the medication to a take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
  • If you cannot return the medication, ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of it safely.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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