There is a temporary antidote for too many salicylates.
For food intolerance reactions and withdrawal symptoms you can use Eno Regular Antacid powder according to packet directions or 1 tsp of soda bicarb in a glass of water (half or less for children over 5).
People usually feel better within a few minutes and the effects last about an hour.
- DO NOT OVERUSE BICARB - as well as hastening the excretion of food chemicals such as salicylates, these home remedies also hasten the excretion of essential nutrients (1)
- IT CAN CAUSE POISONING IN EXCESS (2)
- USA manufacturer’s instructions advise against administering the product to children under age 5 years, because of reported seizure and respiratory depression in children (2)
- Once a day is enough.
More information
Detailed factsheet on salicylates in foods and medications
Note that sodium bicarbonate is also in baking powders, mixed with other ingredients. This is not a substitute.
References
1. Oliver TK, Dyer ME, The prompt treatment of salicylism with sodium bicarbonate. AMA J Dis Child. 1960 May;99:553-65. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14428719/
2. S A Al-Abri , T Kearney, Baking soda misuse as a home remedy: case experience of the California Poison Control System. J Clin Pharm Ther. 2014 Feb;39(1):73-7. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24313600/ Full free text https://escholarship.org/uc/item/4wm1365r
“Of the 192 cases we identified, 55·8% were female, ages ranged 2 months to 79 years, and the most common reasons for misuse included antacid (60·4%), 'beat a urine drug test' (11·5%) and treat a UTI (4·7%). Most cases (55·2%) had significant symptoms warranting a medical evaluation, whereas 12 patients required hospital admission developed either electrolyte imbalances, metabolic alkalosis or respiratory depression.
“Misuse of baking soda can result in serious electrolyte and acid/base imbalances. Patients at highest risk of toxicity may include those who chronically use an antacid, those who use the method to 'beat' urine drug screens, pregnant women and young children. Self-treatment with baking soda as a home remedy may also mask or delay medical care thereby complicating or exacerbating an existing medical problem. We suggest that healthcare providers counsel high-risk patients about the potential complications of misuse of baking soda as a home remedy”.
More information
Introduction to food intolerance factsheet
The information given is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your doctor for underlying illness. Before beginning dietary investigation, consult a dietician with an interest in food intolerance. You can see our list of experienced and supportive dietitians http://fedup.com.au/information/support/dietitians
© Sue Dengate updated January 2023
