A balanced, multi-electrolyte intravenous solution, commonly known as Lactated Ringer's (Hartmann's) solution. It is a sterile, non-pyrogenic crystalloid solution used for fluid resuscitation and electrolyte replacement. It closely mimics the electrolyte composition of plasma and contains lactate as a bicarbonate precursor, making it a more physiological fluid than normal saline for correcting hypovolemia and metabolic acidosis.
Adult: Highly individualized. For resuscitation: 1-2 L rapidly (e.g., 20 ml/kg). For maintenance: 1.5-3 L/day (approx. 30-40 ml/kg/day). Rate and volume depend on clinical condition, ongoing losses, and hemodynamic monitoring.
Note: For intravenous infusion only. Use sterile technique. Must be administered using a clean, non-pyrogenic infusion set. Check for clarity and container integrity before use. Infusion rate must be prescribed by a physician based on patient needs. Do not connect flexible plastic containers in series. Do not use if particulate matter or discoloration is present.
Restores intravascular and extracellular fluid volume, corrects electrolyte imbalances, and provides a buffer precursor. Sodium and Chloride maintain extracellular osmotic pressure and acid-base balance. Potassium is crucial for intracellular osmotic pressure, nerve conduction, and muscle function. Calcium is essential for neuromuscular function, cardiac contractility, and blood coagulation. Lactate is converted in the liver to bicarbonate, which acts as a buffer to correct metabolic acidosis.
Pregnancy: Category C (US FDA). No well-controlled studies. Should be used only if clearly needed. Electrolyte solutions are generally considered safe for use in pregnancy for standard indications like hydration. Monitor fluid balance to avoid overload.
Driving: No effect on ability to drive or operate machinery.
| Potassium-Sparing Diuretics (Spironolactone, Amiloride) | Increased risk of hyperkalemia | Major |
| ACE Inhibitors (Enalapril, Ramipril) / ARBs (Losartan) | Increased risk of hyperkalemia, especially in renal impairment | Major |
| Cardiac Glycosides (Digoxin) | Rapid correction of hypokalemia can potentiate digoxin toxicity. Calcium can exacerbate digoxin's effects on the heart. | Major |
| Corticosteroids (Hydrocortisone, Prednisolone) | May cause sodium and fluid retention, additive effect | Moderate |
| Lithium | Increased sodium excretion may reduce lithium clearance, increasing lithium toxicity risk. | Moderate |
| Tetracyclines (e.g., Doxycycline) | Calcium chloride can chelate tetracyclines, reducing their absorption if co-adminered via same IV line. | Moderate |
Same composition (Sodium Chloride (0.600gm) + Sodium Lactate (0.320gm) + Potassium Chloride (0.040gm) + Calcium Chloride (0.027gm)), different brands: