Storage
Store at room temperature
Synonyms
TRISODIUM CITRATE; Natrocitral; Citrosodine; Citric acid, trisodium salt; Trisodium citrate, anhydrous; sodium citrate, anhydrous; Citnatin
Molecular Formula
C6H5Na3O7
Smiles
C(C(=O)[O-])C(CC(=O)[O-])(C(=O)[O-])O.[Na+].[Na+].[Na+]
Appearance
White crystalline powder
General Description
Sodium citrate is the trisodium salt of citric acid, a weak organic acid with three carboxylate groups. Sodium citrate is a white crystalline powder, readily soluble in water. It is a triprotic acid salt with buffering and chelating properties.
Mechanism of Action
Sodium citrate acts as a systemic alkalizing agent by providing bicarbonate precursors. The citrate ion is metabolized in the liver to bicarbonate, which neutralizes acid and raises the blood pH. It also acts as a chelating agent, binding calcium ions and preventing the formation of calcium oxalate stones in the urinary tract.
Application
Sodium citrate is indicated as a systemic alkalizer for the treatment of metabolic acidosis and for the management of urinary tract infections (to alkalinize the urine). It is also used as an anticoagulant in the collection of blood for transfusion and as a laxative. The drug is effective in reducing the symptoms of heartburn and indigestion.
Sodium citrate (>3.125 mM) dose‑dependently inhibited viability and proliferation of human gastric adenocarcinoma AGS cells. It increased IL‑1β, IL‑8, and TNF levels, with only minor changes in IL‑6, and elevated caspase‑3 and caspase‑9 activities. The results indicate that sodium citrate exerts cytotoxicity via intrinsic apoptosis and cytokine modulation, suggesting potential antitumor activity.
Fig. 1 Effects of sodium citrate on AGS cell proliferation. (Xia Y, et al., 2018)
References
- Xia Y, et al. Sodium citrate inhibits the proliferation of human gastric adenocarcinoma epithelia cells. Oncol Lett. 2018;15(5):6622-6628.
Flax fibers treated with sodium citrate solutions (5%, 10%, 20%) for 120 hours were used to reinforce composites. The 10% treatment produced the best mechanical performance (tensile, flexural, impact, and dynamic mechanical properties) and lowest void content, as confirmed by SEM. Higher concentrations (20%) negatively affected morphology and mechanical properties. Sodium citrate treatment is a cost-effective and eco-friendly method to improve flax fiber composite performance.
Fig. 2 Flow diagram of the experimental procedure. (Fiore V, et al., 2021)
References
- Fiore V, et al. An Innovative Treatment Based on Sodium Citrate for Improving the Mechanical Performances of Flax Fiber Reinforced Composites. Polymers (Basel). 2021;13(4):559.
Does Sodium Citrate require protection from moisture during long-term storage?
It is slightly hygroscopic. Under high humidity (>70% RH), it may absorb moisture and clump. Store in tightly sealed containers in a dry environment.
What is the recommended storage temperature for Sodium Citrate?
Store at controlled room temperature (15-25°C). Avoid excessive heat above 30°C, which can cause loss of water of crystallization.
Is Sodium Citrate stable in solution for anticoagulant and buffer use?
Aqueous solutions are stable when properly preserved.
How is the impurity citric acid (free acid) monitored?
Citric acid content is quantified using a validated HPLC or titration method, ensuring it remains within pharmacopoeial specifications.