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Brand

Also known as L.R.

Availability

50 mL, 100 mL, 250 mL, 500 mL and 1000 mL bags.

Pharmacology

An isotonic crystalloid volume expander that expands circulating blood volume. It approximates the fluid and electrolyte composition of blood.

Electrolytes contained in Lactated Ringer’s Solution are sodium, chloride, calcium, potassium, and lactate. Percentages in 1 litre of solution are as follows:

Sodium : 130 meq.
Chloride : 109 meq.
Calcium : 3 meq.
Potassium : 4 meq.
Lactate : 28 meq.

The lactate in Lactated Ringer’s is metabolized to bicarbonate in the liver, and may be helpful in correcting metabolic acidosis.

Indications

Used in cases of hypovolemia, trauma.

Drug Interactions or Contraindications

Not recommended for use in Congestive Heart Failure or in Renal Failure.

Adverse Reactions

Cardiovascular :   volume overload, CHF.

Metabolic :   fluid and electrolyte imbalances if used inappropriately.

Dosage Recommendations

Dose can be dependent on weight and severity of dehydration. Suggested dosing per references are: 50 mL to 100 mL/kg/24 hours; SQ, IV, IO  ¹

40 mL to 80 mL/kg/24 hours; IV, if animal not drinking. ¹⁰

For a 400 gm rat it would work out to be 16 to 32 mL per day. If giving IP or SQ, it is recommended that it be in divided doses (example: 4 times/day) given during the day, and to be kept to approximately 5 mL per site to prevent skin distention and pain.  ⁹

Locations for giving SQ fluids are the fleshy area scruff of neck, and at right or left hind quarter.

It is also highly recommended that solution be warmed in a water bath prior to giving.

Considerations

• Use in rats only if not able to drink and ALWAYS assess level of dehydration before giving!
• Auscultate breath sounds for rales.
• Use with caution, may result in electrolyte imbalance.
• One litre has 6-month expiration date.

Posted on June 23, 2003, 16:18, Last updated on December 14, 2008, 11:38 | Fluid Therapy