citric acid/glucono-delta-lactone/magnesium carbonate

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

citric acid, glucono-delta-lactone (GDL), and magnesium carbonate are all commonly used in food and beverage industries for various purposes. citric acid is a natural acid derived from citrus fruits and is widely used as a flavor enhancer and preservative in food and beverages. It has a sour taste and acts as an acidulant, helping to balance flavors and enhance the tartness of certain products. citric acid also functions as a pH regulator, helping control food and beverages’ acidity.

Additionally, it acts as a chelating agent, binding to certain minerals and improving their stability and solubility. Because of its multifunctional properties, citric acid is utilized in many products, including carbonated drinks, jams, candies, and processed meats. glucono-delta-lactone (GDL) is a naturally occurring organic acid commonly used as a food acidifier and leavening agent. GDL is a white, crystalline powder that is soluble in water. When dissolved in water, GDL gradually hydrolyzes into gluconic acid, contributing to the overall acidity of the product.

This gradual acidity release makes GDL particularly suitable for applications where a slow acidification process is desired, such as producing tofu or certain dairy products. GDL also acts as a sequestrant, helping to stabilize the texture of food and prevent undesirable interactions between ingredients. It is commonly found in baked goods, dairy products, and protein-based foods. magnesium carbonate is a white, powdery compound used as an anti-caking agent, acidity regulator, and nutrient supplement in food and pharmaceutical industries.

It functions as an anti-caking agent by preventing the formation of lumps or clumps in powdered products, ensuring their free-flowing consistency. magnesium carbonate can also act as an acidity regulator, helping to adjust and stabilize the pH of food and beverage formulations. Additionally, it serves as a dietary source of magnesium, an key mineral that plays a vital role in various physiological processes. It is commonly used in powdered drink mixes, baking powder, and dietary supplements. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency defined 

>10% 

Fever (20-40%) 

Flank pain, transient (>50%) 

Frequency not defined 

Transient hematuria 

Bladder irritability 

Vomiting 

Hypermagnesemia 

Dysuria 

Septicemia 

Thrombophlebitis 

Elevated serum creatinine 

Urinary tract infection 

Back pain 

Nausea 

Candidiasis 

Hyperphosphatemia 

Ileus 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication 

citric acid: 

• Kidney Disorders: Individuals with kidney problems, including those with kidney stones or impaired kidney function, should exercise caution when consuming citric acid. High levels of citric acid intake may increase the risk of kidney stone formation or exacerbate existing kidney conditions. 

glucono-delta-lactone (GDL): 

• Allergies or Sensitivities: Certain individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to GDL. If you have a known allergy to glucono-delta-lactone or have experienced adverse reactions, it is advisable to avoid products containing GDL. 

magnesium carbonate: 

• Kidney Disorders: People with severe kidney dysfunction or those undergoing dialysis should be cautious when using magnesium carbonate supplements. High levels of magnesium can accumulate in the body and potentially cause complications in individuals with impaired kidney function. 
• Bowel Obstruction: magnesium carbonate should be avoided by individuals with a known or suspected bowel obstruction. magnesium can have laxative effects and may worsen symptoms or contribute to intestinal blockages. 

Caution 

citric acid: 

• Dental Health: citric acid is acidic, and prolonged or excessive consumption can erode tooth enamel. It is advisable to rinse the mouth with water after consuming citric acid-containing products or to consume them in moderation to minimize the risk of dental erosion. 

glucono-delta-lactone (GDL): 

• Acid Sensitivity: GDL is an acidifier that can lower food or beverages’ pH. Individuals with acid sensitivity, such as those with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or other digestive disorders, may experience discomfort or worsening symptoms when consuming products with high levels of GDL. It is recommended to monitor your tolerance and adjust your intake accordingly. 

magnesium carbonate: 

• Digestive Upset: magnesium carbonate, especially in high doses, can have a laxative effect and may cause digestive upset, such as diarrhea or stomach discomfort. It is advisable to commence with lower doses and gradually increase if needed while monitoring your body’s response. 
• Medication Interactions: magnesium carbonate may interact with certain medications, including antibiotics, blood pressure medications, and medications for osteoporosis. It is key to consult with a healthcare professional or pharmacist to ensure no potential interactions or adverse effects when taking magnesium carbonate alongside other medications. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

US FDA pregnancy category: C 

Lactation:   

Excreted into human milk: Not known (Renacidin components); Yes (magnesium) 

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.    
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

The pharmacology of citric acid, glucono-delta-lactone (GDL), and magnesium carbonate primarily revolve around their chemical properties and physiological effects. citric acid acts as an acidulant, flavor enhancer, and pH regulator in the body. It is metabolized into various compounds, including citrate, which can benefit the acid-base balance and renal function. GDL is a gluconic acid precursor, contributing to its acidifying and preservative properties.

In the body, GDL gradually hydrolyzes into gluconic acid, which can act as an acidifier and chelating agent, playing a role in enzymatic reactions and influencing pH levels. magnesium carbonate is a source of dietary magnesium, an essential mineral involved in numerous biochemical processes. It can provide supplemental magnesium to support muscle function, nerve transmission, bone health, and various enzymatic reactions. The pharmacological effects of these substances are related to their ability to modify acidity, chelate metals, and supply magnesium as a nutrient. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

Mechanism of action: The action for citric acid, glucono-delta-lactone (GDL), and magnesium carbonate: 

citric acid: 

• Acidulant: citric acid acts as an acidulant by donating hydrogen ions (H+) when water dissolves. This lowers the pH of the solution, resulting in increased acidity. The acidic environment can impact various processes, such as flavor enhancement, preservation, and inhibition of microbial growth. 
• Chelating Agent: citric acid is a chelating agent that can bind to metal ions. citric acid forms complexes with metals such as calcium, iron, and copper, enhancing their stability and solubility. This chelating action helps improve particular food and beverage products’ quality, stability, and appearance. 

glucono-delta-lactone (GDL): 

• Acidification: GDL acts as an acidifier by gradually hydrolyzing into gluconic acid in water and heat. Gluconic acid lowers the pH of the surrounding environment, contributing to acidification. This gradual acidity release is beneficial in food applications where a slow acidification process is desired, such as producing tofu or certain dairy products. 
• Leavening Agent: GDL can also function as a leavening agent, promoting the release of carbon dioxide gas in baked goods. During baking, GDL undergoes hydrolysis and produces gluconic acid, which reacts with baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) to release carbon dioxide. The gas forms bubbles, resulting in the baked product’s light and airy texture. 

magnesium carbonate: 

• Antacid: magnesium carbonate can act as an antacid by neutralizing excess stomach acid. The carbonate ions (CO3^2-) in magnesium carbonate react with hydrogen ions (H+) in the stomach to form carbon dioxide and water. This reaction helps to increase the stomach’s pH, relieving symptoms of acid reflux, heartburn, and indigestion. 
• Mineral Supplementation: magnesium carbonate is a source of supplemental magnesium, an essential mineral in various physiological processes. magnesium ions (Mg^2+) released from magnesium carbonate are absorbed in the intestines and contribute to the body’s magnesium stores. Adequate magnesium levels are essential for proper muscle function, nerve transmission, enzymatic reactions, and bone health. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

citric acid is readily absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. It can be absorbed intact or metabolized into various intermediates, such as citrate, which can also be absorbed. 

GDL is rapidly hydrolyzed into gluconic acid in the presence of water. Gluconic acid, the primary active form, is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. 

magnesium carbonate is broken down into magnesium ions (Mg^2+) and carbonate ions (CO3^2-) in the stomach by the acidic environment. magnesium ions are then absorbed in the small intestine. 

Distribution 

Once absorbed, citric acid is distributed throughout the body, including various tissues and organs. 

Upon absorption, gluconic acid is distributed throughout the body, and its metabolites are utilized in various biochemical processes. 

Once absorbed, magnesium ions are distributed throughout the body, with the highest concentration in the bones, muscles, and soft tissues. 

Metabolism 

citric acid undergoes metabolism in the body, primarily in the liver. It is metabolized through the Krebs cycle, a series of biochemical reactions in cellular energy production. citric acid is converted to intermediate metabolites, such as citrate, which participate in various metabolic pathways. 

Gluconic acid is metabolized through metabolic pathways in the body, including the pentose phosphate pathway. It can be further metabolized into intermediate metabolites involved in energy production. 

magnesium ions play essential roles in numerous enzymatic reactions and cellular processes. They participate in various metabolic pathways and contribute to the overall biochemical balance in the body. 

Elimination and Excretion 

citric acid and its metabolites are excreted primarily via the kidneys as urine. 

The metabolic byproducts of gluconic acid are excreted primarily via the kidneys as urine. 

The excretion of magnesium ions occurs primarily through the kidneys. Any excess magnesium not utilized by the body is excreted in the urine. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

citric acid: 

• Food and Beverage Applications: citric acid is often used as a food additive as a powder or liquid. It can be added directly to food/beverages during preparation to enhance flavor, act as a preservative, or adjust acidity. The amount of citric acid added will depend on the specific recipe or product requirements. 

glucono-delta-lactone (GDL): 

• Food Applications: GDL is commonly used in food manufacturing, mainly producing tofu, cheese, and dairy products. In these applications, GDL is typically added in powdered form directly to the food product during processing. The amount of GDL added will vary based on the desired acidification rate or texture. 

magnesium carbonate: 

• Dietary Supplements: magnesium carbonate is available in supplement form, typically as tablets or capsules. The dosage and administration instructions should be followed as provided by the manufacturer or healthcare professional. Taking magnesium carbonate supplements with food is generally recommended to improve absorption and minimize the risk of digestive upset. 
• Food Applications: magnesium carbonate may also be used as an ingredient in certain food products, such as baking powder or powdered drink mixes. In these cases, it is added directly to the formulation during manufacturing according to the specific recipe or product requirements. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: citric acid/glucono-delta-lactone/magnesium carbonate 

Pronounced: [ SI-trik-AS-id, mag-NEE-see-um-KAR-bo-nate, and-GLOO-kon-o-DEL-ta-LAK-tone ] 

Why do we use citric acid/glucono-delta-lactone/magnesium carbonate? 

citric acid: 

• Food and Beverage Industry: citric acid is widely used as a food additive in the food and beverage industry. It is a flavor enhancer and acidulant in many products, including carbonated beverages, fruit juices, candies, jams, and jellies. citric acid helps to balance flavors, provide tartness, and act as a preservative in certain food products. 
• Cleaning and Household Products: citric acid is also utilized in cleaning and household products due to its acidic and chelating properties. It is found in dishwashing detergents, descaling agents, and bathroom cleaners. citric acid helps remove stains, mineral deposits, and soap scum, making it an effective ingredient in cleaning formulations. 

glucono-delta-lactone (GDL): 

• Food Industry: GDL is commonly used as a food acidifier, flavor enhancer, and leavening agent in the food industry. It is widely employed in producing tofu, where it acts as a coagulant, aiding in the formation of curds. GDL also helps maintain the freshness and extend the shelf life of certain bakery products, such as bread, cakes, and pastries. 
• Cosmetic and Personal Care Products: GDL is used in cosmetic and personal care formulations as a pH adjuster, buffering, and skin conditioning agent. It helps stabilize the pH of skin care products and can contribute to the mild exfoliation of dead skin cells, promoting a smoother complexion. GDL is found in various skincare products, including creams, lotions, and exfoliating treatments. 

magnesium carbonate: 

• Pharmaceutical Industry: magnesium carbonate is used in the pharmaceutical industry as an active ingredient or excipient in medicinal products. It can be found in antacids and laxatives due to its antacid and laxative properties. magnesium carbonate is also utilized in vitamin and mineral supplements as a source of magnesium, an essential mineral for various bodily functions. 
• Food and Sports Supplements: magnesium carbonate is a dietary supplement in tablets, capsules, or powders. It provides a source of supplemental magnesium, which plays a crucial role in muscle function, nerve transmission, and bone health. magnesium carbonate supplements are often consumed to meet daily magnesium requirements or to support athletic performance.