Treatment


Effercitrate Tablets for the relief of symptoms of cystitis (for adults and children over 6years old) contains potassium citrate and citric acid and are available without prescription from your local pharmacy. Always read the label.1


It is important to read the product package leaflet provided with your medicine. This webpage is not a substitute for the product package leaflet. The package leaflet contains additional important information on the use of the medicine.

Cystitis is a urinary tract infection (UTI) that affects the bladder. It’s common, particularly in women. It often gets better by itself, but may sometimes be treated with antibiotics. 2

How to use Effercitrate Tablets

Effercitrate Tablets come in the form of an effervescent tablet, which when fully dissolved in water, the solution contains Potassium citrate and Citric acid.1


How do Effercitrate Tablets work?

Potassium citrate makes the urine more alkaline, by making the urine less acidic this can help offer relief from the discomfort caused by cystitis infections when you go to the toilet.1 


It’s important that you read the leaflet that comes in the box with your Effercitrate Tablets as this contains important information for you. This medicine is available without prescription. However, you still need to take Effercitrate Tablets carefully to get the best results from it.


If your symptoms worsen or do not improve after 3 days of treatment you must consult your Healthcare Professional.3


Important information when taking Effercitrate Tablets


Do not take Effercitrate Tablets if you1


  • are allergic to potassium citrate, citric acid or any of the other ingredients in Effercitrate Tablets
  • have high levels of potassium in your blood (hyperkalaemia).
  • have kidney disease
  • have heart disease including an irregular heartbeat.
  • have Addison’s disease (where the adrenal glands do not produce enough of a hormone called cortisol).
  • have dark or cloudy urine, or are dehydrated

 

Dosage and Administration 2

  • Adults and children over 6 years
  • 2 tablets dissolved in water up to 3 times a day
  • Preferably to be taken with or shortly after meals
  • No dose adjustment for the elderly, however use with caution as elderly people react differently to this medicine
  • Effercitrate Tablets are not recommended for children under 6 years old.
  • Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Effercitrate Tablets if you have high blood pressure.


Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a prescription.

 

In particular, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking: 2

  • Other medicines containing potassium
  • Medicines which make you retain potassium including medicines which make you pass water (‘water tablets’) more often called diuretics such as amiloride and triamterene.
  • Medicines called Aldosterone antagonists such as spironolactone.
  • Medicines that increase potassium levels such as ACE inhibitors or aliskiren (for high blood pressure), angiotensin-II receptor antagonists for high blood pressure or heart failure (such as losartan), Cyclosporin and Tacrolimus (medicines used to reduce the risk of organ transplant rejection).
  • Nitrofurantoin or methenamine (antibacterials for urinary tract infection)
  • Aspirin and other salicylates
  • Medicines to help ease breathing (Salbutamol, ephedrine, phenylephrine).
  • Stimulants such as amphetamines
  • Barbiturates (Phenobarbital)
  • Tetracycline (antibiotic)
  • Digitalis for heart failure

 

Pregnancy and Lactation2:

  • You should consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking Effercitrate Tablets if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are breast-feeding.


Side Effects2:

Like all medicines, Effercitrate Tablets can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.  Some side effects may include: 

  • An increased production of urine (this is quite normal, and shows the medicine is working). 
  • An upset stomach (this can be reduced by taking Effercitrate Tablets with meals or after meals). 
  • If any of the side effects gets serious, please tell your doctor or pharmacist.

 

Storage2:

  • Keep out of sight and reach of children.
  • Replace the cap securely to protect the tablets from moisture and store in a cool dry place below 25°C.

More Questions about Effercitrate Tablets?


References:

1. Effercitrate Tablets Summary of Product Characteristics

2. Effercitrate Tablets Patient Information Leaflet

3. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cystitis/

Date of Prep: June 2025 | Approval Code: EFF/25/06