For a non-emergency correction of metabolic acidosis, sodium bicarbonate diluted in D5W is generally infused over 4 to 8 hours. For a final volume of 500 mL, that corresponds to:

A common 50 mL ampoule of sodium bicarbonate 7.5% w/v contains about 44.6 mEq. The exact dose and rate must be prescribed based on the indication, body weight, blood gas results, serum sodium/potassium, renal function, and volume status. The product prescribing information specifies 4-8 hours for less urgent metabolic acidosis.

Do not use this 4-8 hour schedule for cardiac arrest, severe hyperkalemia with ECG changes, or other emergencies, where bicarbonate may be administered differently under continuous monitoring. Avoid mixing bicarbonate with calcium- or magnesium-containing IV fluids.