Indications
Ammonium bicarbonate is used here as an ingredient in veterinary digestive powders (stomachics and rumen tonics) for cattle, buffalo, goats and sheep. These products are given to animals that are off feed, have poor appetite, indigestion or a sluggish rumen (the large first stomach of cud-chewing animals), often after a change of diet or illness. It is for animal use only and not for human use. (Food-grade ammonium bicarbonate is also used as a raising agent in baking, which is a different use.)
How It Works
Ammonium bicarbonate is a mild alkaline salt. In the stomach and rumen it helps neutralise excess acid, and it releases ammonia and carbon dioxide. The ammonia can be used by rumen microbes as a nitrogen source, and the gentle alkalising and stimulating effect is intended to support rumen activity and appetite. It is usually combined with other ingredients such as plant extracts, vitamins or minerals in these powders.
Dosage and Administration
Give by mouth exactly as directed on the product label or by a veterinarian. The amount depends on the species, body weight and the full formula of the product. Powders are usually mixed with feed or water, or given as a drench. Do not exceed the labelled dose or treatment period. If the animal does not improve within a few days, consult a veterinarian, as poor appetite can be a sign of serious disease.
Interactions
Avoid giving with other alkalising products, urea or other non-protein nitrogen supplements unless a veterinarian advises it, as this can increase the risk of ammonia poisoning. As an antacid it may alter the absorption of some medicines given by mouth at the same time; separate doses as advised by the veterinarian.
Contraindications
Do not use in animals with suspected rumen alkalosis or ammonia poisoning, with severe kidney or liver disease, or with known sensitivity to any ingredient of the product. Not for human use.
Side Effects
At the labelled dose side effects are uncommon. Possible effects include mild bloating, loose dung or reduced appetite. Too much can cause alkalosis or ammonia toxicity.
Contact a veterinarian urgently if the animal shows restlessness, trembling, frothing at the mouth, rapid or difficult breathing, staggering, severe bloat, collapse or convulsions after dosing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Use in pregnant or milking animals only as directed on the label or by a veterinarian. Follow any stated milk withdrawal period before milk is used for human consumption.
Precautions and Warnings
Observe the withdrawal periods for meat and milk given on the product label; if none is stated, ask a veterinarian. Store and handle away from human food and medicines. Wash hands after handling the powder and avoid inhaling dust. Make sure animals have access to clean drinking water.
Overdose
Overdose can cause metabolic alkalosis and ammonia poisoning in ruminants, with trembling, weakness, breathing difficulty, bloat and death in severe cases. Stop the product and call a veterinarian immediately; treatment may include giving dilute acetic acid (vinegar) by mouth and cold water as directed by the vet. If a person swallows the product, seek medical advice.
Therapeutic Class
Veterinary stomachic and rumen tonic ingredient; alkalising agent.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place in a tightly closed container, away from light, animal feed spills and out of the reach of children. It slowly breaks down and loses strength if exposed to heat or moisture.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.