Sodium Bicarbonate: Effervescent Agent and Buffering Excipient
Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃, baking soda) is a mild alkaline salt that reacts with acids to release carbon dioxide. This reaction is the basis for effervescent tablet formulations and is also exploited in floating gastroretentive drug delivery systems. As a pharmaceutical excipient, sodium bicarbonate serves as an antacid, a pH buffer, and a carbon dioxide source for controlled buoyancy.
Product Profile
| CAS Number | 144-55-8 |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | NaHCO₃ |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder or granules |
| Function | Effervescent agent / antacid / pH buffer / gas-generating agent |
| Typical Use Level | 25–50% in effervescent tablets; 0.5–5% as buffer |
| Compendial Grade | EP / USP-NF |
Formulation Applications
In effervescent tablets, sodium bicarbonate is paired with citric acid or tartaric acid to generate rapid CO₂ release upon contact with water, enabling fast disintegration and dissolution. For floating (gastroretentive) dosage forms, it generates gas trapped within a gel matrix, reducing tablet density below that of gastric fluid. As an antacid, it rapidly neutralises gastric acid and is used in both OTC and prescription formulations. In injectable preparations, it serves as a buffer to adjust pH to physiological levels. Sodium bicarbonate is also a key excipient in toothpastes and oral rinses.
Why Source from TCS
TCS supplies Sodium Bicarbonate in pharmaceutical and food grades to formulators across Europe. Available in standard packaging with flexible quantities for R&D through production scale. Contact us with your application and volume requirements.
FAQ
What information should be included in an inquiry for Sodium Bicarbonate –144-55-8?
A useful inquiry normally includes the product name, target application, estimated quantity, destination market, and any specific documentation or packaging requests.
How is Sodium Bicarbonate –144-55-8 usually evaluated for sourcing?
This product is positioned for excipient sourcing where formulation fit, dosage form, handling, and repeat purchasing requirements need to be reviewed together with commercial supply conditions.
What documentation and commercial points are commonly reviewed before buying Sodium Bicarbonate –144-55-8?
For excipient sourcing, teams usually discuss the intended dosage form, formulation role, packaging format, order volume, and the routine documentation needed for qualification and purchasing.
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