3% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION BP Infusion/Solution for

What is 3% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION BP

3% w/v Sodium Chloride Intravenous Infusion BP is a sterile, hypertonic solution of sodium chloride designed for intravenous administration. It is primarily used for the treatment of severe hyponatremia (low serum sodium levels) and conditions requiring osmotic diuresis or intracranial pressure reduction.

• Composition: Each 100 mL contains 3 grams of sodium chloride (NaCl), equating to 513 mEq/L of sodium and chloride ions.
• Formulation: Clear, colorless solution in a 500 mL plastic bottle suitable for intravenous infusion.
• Pharmacological Category: Electrolyte replacement, osmotic agent.
• Indications:
  • Treatment of symptomatic or severe hyponatremia
  • Management of cerebral edema and increased intracranial pressure
  • Adjunct in neurosurgical or neurocritical care scenarios

Due to its hypertonic nature, this solution is only administered in controlled clinical environments where electrolyte levels can be closely monitored.

How to use 3% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION BP

This solution should be used only under the supervision of trained healthcare professionals with continuous monitoring of serum electrolytes and fluid balance.

• Route of Administration: Intravenous infusion, preferably through a central venous catheter due to hypertonicity.
• Infusion Rate:
  • Typically initiated at a controlled rate of 1–2 mL/kg/hour
  • Adjusted according to serum sodium levels, typically not exceeding 8–10 mEq/L correction in 24 hours
• Monitoring:
  • Serum sodium every 2–4 hours during infusion
  • Fluid intake/output, osmolality, and neurological status
• Precautions:
  • Never administer rapidly unless in emergency
  • Ensure product is clear and container integrity is intact

Administration should always be based on calculated sodium deficits and tailored to avoid complications like osmotic demyelination syndrome (ODS).

Mode of Action 3% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION BP

3% Sodium Chloride exerts its therapeutic effect by replenishing deficient sodium ions and increasing extracellular osmolality, thereby promoting the movement of water from intracellular to extracellular compartments.

• Osmotic Effect: The hypertonic nature draws water out of swollen brain cells and other tissues, helping reduce cerebral edema.
• Electrolyte Restoration: Replenishes sodium levels in patients with symptomatic or severe hyponatremia.
• Volume Expansion: Temporarily expands plasma volume by shifting water into the intravascular space.

This solution does not provide calories or other electrolytes. Its effectiveness lies primarily in correcting sodium imbalances and managing fluid distribution in critical care scenarios.

3% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION BP Interactions 3% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION BP

This hypertonic sodium chloride solution may interact with other medications that influence fluid balance, electrolytes, or renal function. Understanding these interactions is essential for safe use.

• Diuretics (Loop or Thiazide):
  • May enhance sodium depletion or cause unpredictable electrolyte shifts when used concurrently.
• Corticosteroids:
  • Can increase sodium retention and fluid accumulation, raising the risk of hypertension or edema.
• Desmopressin (DDAVP):
  • Used in hyponatremia management but may complicate correction if not properly timed or monitored.
• ACE Inhibitors/ARBs:
  • May impact renal sodium handling and fluid excretion; requires close monitoring.
• Lithium:
  • Sodium shifts may affect lithium excretion and increase risk of toxicity.

Always assess a patient’s complete medication list and adjust therapy accordingly under specialist supervision.

Dosage of 3% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION BP

There is no fixed universal dose for 3% Sodium Chloride; dosage is individualized based on sodium deficit, patient weight, and clinical urgency.

• Initial Dosing: Typically 1–2 mL/kg/hour intravenously, though some cases may require bolus doses (e.g., 100–150 mL over 30–60 minutes in emergencies).
• Calculation: Sodium deficit (mEq) = (Desired Na⁺ – Current Na⁺) × TBW × 0.6 (adjusted by age/gender)
• Correction Target: Aim for a 4–6 mEq/L increase in the first 6 hours, but not more than 8–10 mEq/L in 24 hours.
• Maximum Daily Volume: Usually limited to avoid overcorrection, depending on fluid status and risk of demyelination.

Always tailor the dose to the patient’s clinical profile, lab data, and response to therapy. Continuous reevaluation is essential.

Possible side effects of 3% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION BP

Like all hypertonic solutions, 3% Sodium Chloride may produce side effects if improperly administered or used without monitoring.

• Common Adverse Effects:
  • Dry mouth or excessive thirst
  • Headache or irritability
  • Local vein irritation or phlebitis
• Serious Side Effects:
  • Pulmonary edema
  • Hypernatremia (serum sodium >145 mEq/L)
  • Osmotic demyelination syndrome (ODS)
  • Hypertension or cardiovascular strain
• Other Reactions:
  • Electrolyte imbalance (e.g., hypokalemia)
  • Seizures (from rapid correction of sodium)

Prompt recognition and intervention are essential in preventing permanent harm. Adverse effects should be reported and managed per hospital protocols.

3% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION BP Contraindications 3% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION BP

This solution is contraindicated in several clinical scenarios where sodium or fluid overload would pose a significant risk.

• Absolute Contraindications:
  • Hypernatremia
  • Severe congestive heart failure
  • Anuria or severe renal failure not on dialysis
• Relative Contraindications:
  • Uncontrolled hypertension
  • Peripheral edema or ascites
  • Preeclampsia or eclampsia

Careful clinical evaluation must precede administration. If contraindications exist, consider alternative treatment or lower concentration infusions under strict monitoring.

Storage of 3% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION BP

To maintain product integrity and sterility, follow these guidelines for proper storage of this infusion solution.

• Temperature: Store at 20–25°C (68–77°F). Avoid excessive heat or freezing.
• Packaging: The solution is packaged in a plastic bottle that should remain sealed until use.
• Light Sensitivity: Not photosensitive but should be kept away from direct sunlight.
• Visual Check: Inspect before use for clarity, particulates, and seal integrity.
• Shelf Life: Use before expiration date on label; do not use if discolored or precipitated.

Ensure that storage areas are clean, dry, and designated for sterile IV fluids. Keep out of reach of unauthorized personnel or children.