Sacaharin Sodium
Indications
Saccharin sodium is an artificial sweetener. It is used as a sugar substitute in tea, coffee, drinks and foods by people with diabetes, people trying to cut calories or sugar, and those who need to limit sugar for dental health. It is also used to sweeten some medicines.
How It Works
Saccharin is about 300 to 400 times sweeter than sugar, so only a tiny amount is needed. The body does not break it down for energy; it passes out in the urine unchanged. Because of this, it adds almost no calories and does not raise blood sugar.
Dosage and Administration
Use as directed on the label, usually one small tablet or a measured amount of powder or drops in place of each teaspoon of sugar. Dissolve in hot or cold drinks. Keep daily intake within the amount stated on the pack; normal use is well below the accepted safe daily limit. Some people notice a slightly bitter or metallic aftertaste.
Interactions
No important interactions with medicines are known at normal amounts. People taking diabetes medicines should remember that sweeteners do not treat low blood sugar; use real sugar or glucose for a hypo.
Contraindications
- Allergy or sensitivity to saccharin or to sulfonamide-type compounds (rare).
Side Effects
Saccharin is generally well tolerated. Rarely, people report headache, skin rash, itching or stomach upset. Each tablet contains a small amount of sodium.
Get urgent medical help for any sign of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing or widespread rash.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Saccharin crosses the placenta and passes into breast milk. Moderate use is generally considered acceptable, but many experts advise pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers to limit it. Ask your doctor.
Precautions and Warnings
Sweeteners do not replace a balanced diet or diabetes treatment. People on a strict low-sodium diet should note the sodium content. Young children should only have small amounts. Older concerns about bladder cancer came from rat studies and have not been shown to apply to humans.
Overdose
Swallowing many tablets is unlikely to be dangerous but may cause stomach upset. If a child swallows a large number, contact a doctor for advice.
Therapeutic Class
Non-nutritive artificial sweetener (food additive and pharmaceutical excipient).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Sacaharin Sodium