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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Brand Name
Ammonium Lactate
Generic Name
Ammonium Lactate
Active Ingredient
AmmoniumCategory
Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Salt Form
Chloride
Variants
12
Different strengths and dosage forms
| Strength | Form | Route | NDC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 120 mg/g | LOTION | TOPICAL | 50090-6587 |
| 12 g/100g | LOTION | TOPICAL | 72162-1407 |
| 12 g/100g | CREAM | TOPICAL | 63629-8608 |
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Before using any prescription or over-the-counter medication for Ammonium Lactate, you must consult a qualified healthcare professional.
| 12 g/100g | CREAM | TOPICAL | 63629-8609 |
| 120 mg/g | CREAM | TOPICAL | 70518-3619 |
| 12 g/100g | CREAM | TOPICAL | 45802-493 |
| 12 g/100g | LOTION | TOPICAL | 63629-8610 |
| 12 g/100g | CREAM | TOPICAL | 72162-1413 |
| 120 mg/g | LOTION | TOPICAL | 51672-1300 |
| 120 mg/g | CREAM | TOPICAL | 51672-1301 |
| 12 g/100g | LOTION | TOPICAL | 45802-419 |
| 12 g/100g | LOTION | TOPICAL | 63629-8611 |
Detailed information about Ammonium Lactate
Ammonium, primarily as Ammonium Chloride, is an acidifying agent used to treat metabolic alkalosis and maintain urinary pH. It also serves as an expectorant and a component in diagnostic allergenic extracts.
The dosage of Ammonium Chloride varies significantly based on the intended therapeutic goal and the patient's current acid-base status.
Ammonium Chloride must be used with extreme caution in children, as their renal and hepatic systems are still developing, making them more susceptible to acidosis.
Ammonium Chloride is strictly contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment. In mild to moderate cases, the dose must be significantly reduced, and the patient must be monitored for signs of hyperchloremic acidosis. If the kidneys cannot excrete the chloride load, the drug will quickly become toxic.
This medication is contraindicated in patients with severe liver disease or cirrhosis. Because the liver is responsible for converting ammonium to urea, hepatic failure leads to the accumulation of ammonia in the blood, which can cause life-threatening hepatic encephalopathy (brain swelling and dysfunction).
Elderly patients often have a natural decline in renal function (reduced GFR). Dosing should start at the lower end of the spectrum, and frequent monitoring of serum electrolytes and bicarbonate levels is mandatory to prevent the sudden onset of metabolic acidosis.
If you miss a dose of the oral medication, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular timing. Do not double the dose to catch up, as this significantly increases the risk of developing metabolic acidosis.
An overdose of Ammonium Chloride is a medical emergency. Signs of overdose include:
Emergency Measures: If an overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or seek emergency medical care immediately. Treatment usually involves the intravenous administration of sodium bicarbonate or sodium lactate to neutralize the excess acidity, along with supportive care for electrolyte imbalances.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions exactly. Do not adjust your dose or stop the medication without medical guidance, as acid-base imbalances can shift rapidly.
Most patients taking Ammonium Chloride will experience some level of gastrointestinal discomfort. These effects are usually dose-dependent and may include:
Ammonium is a potent pharmacological agent that directly alters the body's internal chemistry. It should never be used for self-medication without professional oversight. The most critical safety concern is the risk of Metabolic Acidosis, a condition where the blood becomes too acidic, which can impair the function of every major organ system, including the heart and brain.
No FDA black box warnings for Ammonium. However, healthcare providers treat Ammonium Chloride as a high-risk medication in the inpatient setting, particularly regarding its potential for causing severe pH shifts and hyperammonemia.
There are several conditions where the use of Ammonium is strictly prohibited due to the risk of death or severe injury:
Ammonium Chloride is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C. This means that animal reproduction studies have not been conducted, and there are no adequate, well-controlled studies in humans. It is unknown if Ammonium can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. However, severe metabolic acidosis in the mother can lead to reduced uterine blood flow and fetal distress. Therefore, Ammonium should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and under strict specialist supervision.
It is not known whether ammonium ions or their metabolites are excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in milk and the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants (such as metabolic shifts) exists, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Ammonium is used in children primarily for the treatment of severe alkalosis. However, the safety margin is much narrower in pediatric patients. Infants, especially neonates, have immature renal function and a limited ability to excrete an acid load. Using Ammonium in this population carries a high risk of 'acidosis-induced' respiratory failure. It should only be used in a pediatric intensive care setting with continuous monitoring.
Ammonium Chloride (NH4Cl) works by providing a source of chloride ions and hydrogen ions. Once it reaches the liver, the NH4+ ion is processed via the Urea Cycle. The chemical equation for this process is:
2NH4Cl + CO2 → (NH2)2CO (urea) + 2HCl + H2O.
The resulting Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) dissociates into H+ and Cl-. The H+ ions react with bicarbonate buffers in the blood, lowering the pH. This molecular 'titration' of the body's base reserve is the core of its pharmacological effect.
The onset of action for oral Ammonium Chloride is approximately 30 to 60 minutes, with the peak acidifying effect occurring between 1 and 3 hours. The duration of effect is typically 6 to 8 hours. The relationship between dose and response is linear in patients with healthy livers, but becomes unpredictable in those with hepatic dysfunction. Tolerance does not typically develop, but the body's compensatory mechanisms (like the lungs breathing out more CO2) will attempt to counteract the drug's effect over time.
Common questions about Ammonium Lactate
Ammonium, specifically in the form of Ammonium Chloride, is primarily used as an acidifying agent to treat metabolic alkalosis, a condition where the body's fluids are too alkaline. It is also used to acidify the urine to help the body get rid of certain toxins or to treat specific urinary tract issues. In many over-the-counter medicines, it serves as an expectorant to help thin and loosen mucus in the chest. Additionally, it is used in diagnostic allergenic extracts to test for plant and food allergies. Your doctor will determine the specific use based on your blood chemistry and clinical needs.
The most common side effects of Ammonium Chloride are related to the digestive system, including nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Many patients experience a 'gnawing' or burning sensation in the stomach shortly after taking the oral tablets. Other common effects include increased thirst and a slight increase in breathing rate as the body adjusts to the change in acidity. These symptoms are often dose-dependent and can be minimized by taking the medication with food. If these symptoms become severe or are accompanied by confusion, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.
It is strongly recommended that you avoid alcohol while taking Ammonium. Alcohol can significantly increase the risk of stomach irritation and gastrointestinal bleeding when combined with acidifying salts. Furthermore, alcohol can impair liver function, which is critical because the liver is responsible for processing ammonium into urea. If the liver is slowed by alcohol, ammonium can build up in the blood, leading to serious neurological side effects. Alcohol can also worsen the dizziness or drowsiness that some people feel while their body's pH is being adjusted.
Ammonium is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C, meaning its safety has not been fully established in pregnant women. While there is no definitive evidence of birth defects, the drug can significantly alter the mother's blood chemistry, which may indirectly affect the fetus. Severe changes in maternal pH can reduce the amount of oxygen and nutrients reaching the baby. Therefore, it should only be used during pregnancy if a doctor decides the benefits clearly outweigh the potential risks. Always inform your obstetrician if you are prescribed any form of ammonium.
When taken by mouth, Ammonium Chloride typically begins to work within 30 to 60 minutes as it is absorbed from the digestive tract. The peak effect on blood and urine acidity usually occurs between 1 and 3 hours after the dose is taken. If administered intravenously in a hospital, the effects are much more rapid, often beginning within minutes of starting the infusion. The duration of a single dose's effect usually lasts for about 6 to 8 hours. Your doctor will likely use blood tests to confirm that the medication is working as intended.
You should not stop taking Ammonium suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider, especially if you are being treated for a severe acid-base imbalance. Stopping the medication abruptly can cause your body's pH to swing back too far in the opposite direction, a phenomenon sometimes called 'rebound alkalosis.' This can lead to symptoms like muscle twitching, confusion, and irregular heartbeats. Your doctor will typically monitor your blood gases and may slowly reduce your dose to ensure your body remains stable as the medication is discontinued.
If you miss a dose of oral Ammonium, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for the missed one, as this can lead to an overdose and cause your blood to become dangerously acidic. If you are receiving this medication in a hospital setting and a dose is delayed, the medical staff will adjust the timing based on your most recent lab results. Consistent timing is important for maintaining a stable pH level.
Ammonium itself is not known to cause significant weight gain or an increase in body fat. However, because it is a salt (chloride), it can sometimes cause the body to retain water, which might lead to a temporary increase in 'water weight' or mild swelling in the ankles and feet. This is more common in patients who already have heart or kidney problems. If you notice a sudden, large increase in weight (more than 3 pounds in a day) or significant swelling, you should contact your doctor, as this may indicate that the medication is straining your heart or kidneys.
Ammonium has several significant drug interactions that require careful management. It should not be taken with potassium-sparing diuretics like spironolactone, as this combination can cause dangerously high potassium levels. It can also interfere with how your body gets rid of other drugs; for example, it can make aspirin stay in your system longer or cause ADHD medications (amphetamines) to leave your system too quickly. Always provide your doctor with a complete list of all medications, including herbal supplements like St. John's Wort, to prevent dangerous interactions.
Yes, Ammonium Chloride is available as a generic medication in both tablet and injectable forms. Generic versions are typically much less expensive than brand-name products and are required by the FDA to have the same quality, strength, and purity as the original brand. It is also a common ingredient in many generic over-the-counter cough syrups. When purchasing OTC products, check the 'Active Ingredients' label to see if ammonium chloride is listed. Whether you use a brand-name or generic version, the clinical effects and risks remain the same.
Other drugs with the same active ingredient (Ammonium)
> Warning: Stop taking Ammonium and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. These may indicate life-threatening metabolic acidosis or ammonia toxicity.
Prolonged use of Ammonium Chloride is generally discouraged. If used for extended periods, it can lead to:
There are currently no FDA black box warnings specifically for Ammonium Chloride. However, the clinical literature emphasizes that it is a high-alert medication when administered intravenously. The primary danger is the rapid induction of metabolic acidosis if the infusion rate is not strictly controlled. Furthermore, its use in patients with primary hepatic disease is considered a 'never event' due to the certainty of inducing ammonia-related neurotoxicity.
Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider. Even mild side effects should be monitored, as they can be the first signs of a worsening acid-base imbalance.
If you are prescribed Ammonium, your healthcare provider will require regular testing to ensure the drug is working safely. These tests include:
Ammonium can cause drowsiness, confusion, and dizziness, especially when you first start taking it or if the dose is adjusted. You should not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you. If you feel 'foggy' or unusually tired, contact your doctor.
Alcohol should be avoided while taking Ammonium. Alcohol can irritate the stomach lining, compounding the gastric side effects of the drug. More importantly, alcohol can interfere with liver function and may worsen the CNS-depressing effects (drowsiness/confusion) caused by acid-base shifts.
Do not stop taking Ammonium suddenly if you are being treated for a chronic condition, as this can cause a 'rebound' effect where your body's pH swings too far in the opposite direction. Your doctor will likely taper your dose or transition you to another therapy while monitoring your blood chemistry.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions with your healthcare provider before starting Ammonium. Be sure to mention if you have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, or heart failure.
For each major interaction, the mechanism usually involves a shift in the Henderson-Hasselbalch equilibrium, where the acidity of the environment determines whether a drug molecule is 'charged' (and excreted) or 'uncharged' (and reabsorbed).
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. This includes over-the-counter cough medicines, as many already contain ammonium.
These conditions require a careful risk-benefit analysis by a physician:
Patients who have had a severe allergic reaction to other ammonium salts or components of allergenic extracts should avoid this medication. Additionally, because Ammonium is often packaged in vials with latex stoppers or contains specific preservatives, patients with Latex Allergies or sensitivities to parabens should inform their provider before receiving an IV dose.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including your liver and kidney function, before prescribing Ammonium.
Clinical studies of Ammonium Chloride did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine if they respond differently from younger subjects. However, because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection. The risk of falling may also be increased in the elderly if the drug causes confusion or dizziness due to pH changes.
In patients with a GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate) below 30 mL/min, Ammonium is generally avoided. For those with mild impairment (GFR 60-89 mL/min), the dose should be reduced by at least 50%, and blood pH should be checked every few hours during the initial phase of treatment.
As previously noted, any degree of significant hepatic impairment is a major red flag. In patients with Child-Pugh Class B or C, the drug is absolutely contraindicated. Even in Class A (mild) impairment, the risk of triggering encephalopathy is considered too high for standard use.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment. Never share this medication with others, especially those in these high-risk groups.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | ~90-100% (Oral) |
| Protein Binding | Negligible |
| Half-life | 2-4 hours (Metabolic conversion) |
| Tmax | 1-3 hours |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (Urea Cycle) |
| Excretion | Renal (as Urea and Chloride) |
Ammonium belongs to the therapeutic class of Acidifying Agents. In the context of the provided EPC data, it is also categorized as a 'Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract' when used in diagnostic immunology. It is related to other acidifiers like dilute hydrochloric acid or lysine hydrochloride, though it is more commonly used due to its ease of administration.