Effects of Enteric-Coated Formulation of Sodium Bicarbonate on Bicarbonate Absorption and Gastrointestinal Discomfort

Sodium bicarbonate is used as an ergogenic supplement to enhance people’s performances in various exercises. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of intestinal delivery of sodium bicarbonate on bicarbonate absorption and associated side effects in an experimental human trial. After preparing and assessing enteric-coated and uncoated sodium bicarbonate tablet formulations, pharmacokinetic analysis and gastrointestinal symptom tests were performed after oral administration in the human body. The dose required to increase blood bicarbonate concentration over 5 mmol∙L−1 for the purpose of improving performance during high-intensity exercise was also determined. Enteric-coated tablet formulation protects sodium bicarbonate under acidic conditions and releases bicarbonate in the intestine. Enteric-coated tablet formulation also reduced the oral dose required to achieve a blood bicarbonate concentration over 5 mmol∙L−1 from 300 mg∙kg−1 of uncoated tablet formulation to 225 mg∙kg−1. Gastrointestinal discomfort was significantly decreased for the group given 225 mg∙kg−1 enteric-coated tablets compared to that given 300 mg∙kg−1 uncoated tablets. These results suggest that enteric-coated tablet formulation could reduce the oral dose required in order to achieve a blood bicarbonate concentration over 5 mmol∙L−1 by 25%, from 300 mg∙kg−1 to 225 mg∙kg−1, along with its ability to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort associated with the dosage.