(BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.45% w/v (Viaflo) Solution for infusion

What is (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.45% w/v (Viaflo)

BAXTER Sodium Chloride 0.45% w/v (Viaflo) is a sterile, non-pyrogenic, hypotonic solution used for intravenous infusion. It serves as a vital replenishment fluid in clinical settings, particularly for the treatment of mild sodium depletion, hydration therapy, and as a vehicle for the administration of other compatible IV medications. Each 500 ml Viaflo bag contains 0.45 grams of sodium chloride per 100 ml of water for injection, making it half-normal saline (also known as 0.45% NaCl).

• Form: Solution for infusion
• Strength: Sodium Chloride 0.45% w/v
• Packaging: 20 bags × 500 ml
• Common Uses: Hydration therapy, electrolyte maintenance, drug dilution
• Generic Association: Often used in settings alongside calcium carbonate for metabolic balance in renal care

This solution is widely used in patients requiring fluid replacement with a low sodium concentration. Its hypotonic nature allows for gentle rehydration without overloading the sodium content, especially in patients with hypernatremia or those susceptible to fluid overload.

How to use (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.45% w/v (Viaflo)

This infusion solution must be administered intravenously under the supervision of a healthcare professional. The method, rate, and volume of administration depend on the patient’s age, clinical status, and serum electrolyte levels.

• Route of Administration: Intravenous via sterile IV tubing and aseptic technique
• Infusion Rate: Determined by the clinical condition and age; usually infused slowly to avoid dilutional hyponatremia
• Inspection Prior to Use: Check for particulate matter, clarity, and integrity of the Viaflo bag
• Compatibility: Can be used as a diluent for water-soluble drugs, provided compatibility is confirmed

The solution should not be administered in excessive volumes or rapidly, especially in patients at risk of fluid overload. It is also essential to monitor fluid balance and electrolyte concentrations during prolonged therapy. This product is not intended for self-administration and should only be given in clinical settings such as hospitals or under professional home-care supervision.

Mode of Action (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.45% w/v (Viaflo)

BAXTER Sodium Chloride 0.45% w/v works by restoring and maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in the body. As a hypotonic solution, it provides a lower sodium content compared to normal saline, enabling safe rehydration without increasing sodium levels excessively.

• Sodium Ions (Na⁺): Crucial for maintaining extracellular fluid volume, acid-base balance, and nerve transmission
• Chloride Ions (Cl⁻): Assist in osmotic pressure regulation and maintain acid-base equilibrium
• Hypotonic Effect: Promotes intracellular hydration by allowing water to move from the extracellular to intracellular space
• Use with Calcium Carbonate: Supports acid-base regulation and metabolic balance in patients with kidney disorders

Upon intravenous administration, sodium and chloride ions are distributed in the extracellular space, replenishing lost electrolytes and restoring fluid balance. The hypotonicity of the solution makes it suitable for managing dehydration and hypernatremia, where excess sodium needs to be diluted and excreted gradually.

(BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.45% w/v (Viaflo) Interactions (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.45% w/v (Viaflo)

This infusion may interact with various medications and conditions, especially those affecting fluid and electrolyte status. It is essential to review a patient’s medication profile before administration.

• Calcium Carbonate: Caution when used together; precipitation risk if co-administered in the same line—administer separately
• Corticosteroids: May increase sodium retention and reduce the effect of hypotonic solutions
• Diuretics: Loop or thiazide diuretics may enhance sodium loss or shift potassium balance
• Antihypertensives: Effects may be altered with shifts in fluid and sodium balance
• NSAIDs: May reduce renal sodium excretion, increasing risk of sodium overload

To minimize adverse interactions, always verify drug compatibility before mixing with this solution. Avoid combining in the same IV line with calcium or phosphate-containing drugs unless clinically indicated and proven compatible. Continuous monitoring of serum electrolytes is essential during co-administration with any drug affecting fluid homeostasis.

Dosage of (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.45% w/v (Viaflo)

The dosage of this solution varies based on the patient’s fluid and electrolyte needs, body weight, age, and underlying health conditions. It must be tailored individually by a healthcare provider.

• Adults: Typically 500–2000 ml per day, depending on hydration and electrolyte status
• Pediatrics: Dosage is weight-based (e.g., 20–50 ml/kg/day); must be calculated carefully
• Renal Impairment: Use cautiously; adjust volume to avoid fluid overload
• Infusion Rate: Generally 100–200 ml/hr, but may be slower in high-risk populations

Always monitor serum sodium levels during administration to avoid hyponatremia. In cases of acute fluid loss or surgical recovery, higher infusion volumes may be required temporarily. Conversely, patients with cardiac or renal conditions may need lower rates and closer monitoring. Infusion should be stopped or adjusted at the first sign of fluid overload or electrolyte imbalance.

Possible side effects of (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.45% w/v (Viaflo)

While generally safe when administered correctly, this infusion may cause side effects, especially with inappropriate use or prolonged therapy. Monitoring is essential to avoid complications.

• Common Side Effects:
• Injection site irritation or phlebitis
• Mild edema due to fluid retention
• Electrolyte disturbances if not properly monitored
• Serious Side Effects:
• Hyponatremia: headache, confusion, seizures in severe cases
• Hypervolemia: pulmonary edema, increased blood pressure
• Hypochloremic alkalosis if large volumes are administered without monitoring
• Rare Reactions: Allergic responses, although extremely uncommon with saline-based infusions

Adverse effects are more likely in patients with impaired renal function, congestive heart failure, or who are receiving multiple fluid therapies. Prompt medical intervention is needed if symptoms of fluid overload or neurologic disturbances arise.

(BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.45% w/v (Viaflo) Contraindications (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.45% w/v (Viaflo)

This product should not be administered to patients under certain conditions where hypotonic fluids may exacerbate health problems.

• Hyponatremia or Water Intoxication: May worsen serum sodium dilution
• Heart Failure or Pulmonary Edema: Risk of volume overload and fluid retention
• Renal Impairment: Reduced ability to excrete free water may lead to fluid accumulation
• Uncontrolled Diabetes Mellitus: May affect fluid regulation
• Known hypersensitivity: To sodium chloride or any of the solution components (rare)

Close supervision is required for patients with chronic diseases affecting fluid and electrolyte regulation. Use in such populations should follow careful risk-benefit evaluation and be accompanied by laboratory monitoring and individualized dosage planning.

Storage of (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.45% w/v (Viaflo)

Maintaining proper storage conditions is critical to preserving the sterility, efficacy, and safety of this infusion solution.

• Storage Temperature: Store below 25°C (77°F); avoid freezing
• Protect from Light: Keep the bags in their overwraps and away from direct sunlight
• Bag Inspection: Do not use if the solution is discolored, cloudy, or contains visible particles
• Shelf Life: Use by the expiration date indicated on the packaging
• Post-Opening Use: Once opened, use immediately; discard any unused portion

Store the solution in its original packaging until ready to use. Discard expired or damaged bags according to institutional waste protocols. Never reuse or reconnect partially used bags to avoid contamination risks.