(BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN (RINGER LACTATE) Solution for Intravenous Infusion

What is (BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN (RINGER LACTATE)

(BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN, also known as Ringer Lactate solution, is a sterile, non-pyrogenic solution formulated for intravenous infusion. It is supplied in 250 ml Viaflo bags, with each pack containing 30 units. This solution contains the following electrolytes and compounds: Sodium Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Chloride Dihydrate, and Sodium Lactate.

• Purpose: It is commonly used for fluid resuscitation in cases of dehydration, blood loss, burns, or surgical recovery.
• Electrolyte Replenishment: This balanced electrolyte solution is designed to restore plasma volume and correct electrolyte imbalances.
• Isotonic Profile: The solution is isotonic with blood plasma, making it well tolerated and effective for various clinical uses.
• Clinical Settings: Frequently administered in hospitals, surgical units, emergency departments, and intensive care units.

The composition mimics extracellular fluid, providing not only hydration but also essential electrolytes to help maintain acid-base balance and support metabolic functions. It is considered safer than normal saline in situations requiring large-volume resuscitation because it reduces the risk of developing hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis.

How to use (BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN (RINGER LACTATE)

(BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN is for intravenous administration only and should be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. The solution should be visually inspected before use to ensure it is clear and free of particulates.

• Administration Route: Intravenous infusion through a sterile IV set.
• Infusion Rate: The rate of administration should be based on the patient's clinical condition, age, weight, and fluid/electrolyte requirements.
• Volume of Infusion: Dosage depends on the specific medical need, typically ranging from 500 ml to several liters per day.
• Compatibility: Can be co-administered with other IV drugs, but compatibility must be confirmed before mixing.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of fluid balance, electrolyte levels, and acid-base status is essential.

The solution must be administered using aseptic techniques. Once opened, the bag should not be stored for future use to avoid the risk of contamination. Any unused portion should be discarded immediately after use.

Mode of Action (BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN (RINGER LACTATE)

The therapeutic efficacy of (BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN is primarily due to its balanced electrolyte composition, which closely resembles plasma. Its components work synergistically to restore and maintain fluid and electrolyte homeostasis.

• Sodium Chloride: Maintains osmotic pressure and balances extracellular fluid volume.
• Potassium Chloride: Replaces potassium losses and supports cardiac and neuromuscular functions.
• Calcium Chloride Dihydrate: Important for muscle contraction, nerve impulse transmission, and blood clotting.
• Sodium Lactate: Acts as a bicarbonate precursor. It is metabolized in the liver to bicarbonate, helping to correct metabolic acidosis.

Ringer Lactate works as a plasma volume expander, aiding in perfusion of vital organs. It’s especially beneficial in treating hypovolemia, acidosis, and electrolyte disturbances. Its lactate component makes it superior in certain shock states by offering buffering capacity.

(BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN (RINGER LACTATE) Interactions (BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN (RINGER LACTATE)

Drug interactions with (BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN primarily involve medications or substances that influence electrolyte levels or acid-base balance.

• Potassium-Sparing Diuretics (e.g., Spironolactone): May increase the risk of hyperkalemia when used concurrently.
• ACE Inhibitors / ARBs: Concurrent use may raise serum potassium levels, especially in renal impairment.
• Corticosteroids: May promote sodium retention and potassium loss, potentially counteracting the solution's potassium content.
• Cardiac Glycosides (e.g., Digoxin): Abnormal serum electrolyte concentrations, particularly calcium and potassium, may increase toxicity risk.
• Blood Products: Calcium in the solution can precipitate with citrate used as an anticoagulant in transfused blood products.

It is crucial to evaluate the patient's concurrent therapies and monitor their electrolyte levels closely during and after administration. Always consult compatibility charts before co-infusing with other intravenous medications.

Dosage of (BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN (RINGER LACTATE)

The dosage of (BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN varies based on the patient’s fluid and electrolyte requirements. It should be tailored individually according to clinical status, ongoing losses, and laboratory values.

• Adults: Typically, 500 ml to 3000 ml per day administered at a controlled rate.
• Pediatrics: Dosage should be calculated based on body weight and clinical needs; a common guide is 20–30 ml/kg/day.
• Surgical Use: May be administered preoperatively, intraoperatively, or postoperatively to maintain fluid balance.
• Burns and Trauma: Higher volumes may be necessary to compensate for significant fluid losses.

Adjustments may be necessary in cases of renal impairment, liver dysfunction, or cardiac insufficiency. Infusion rates should be managed to avoid fluid overload or electrolyte disturbances. Always administer under medical supervision with appropriate monitoring.

Possible side effects of (BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN (RINGER LACTATE)

While (BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN is generally well-tolerated, side effects may occur, particularly with excessive or inappropriate administration.

• Fluid Overload: May lead to edema, hypertension, and pulmonary congestion, especially in cardiac or renal patients.
• Electrolyte Imbalances: Hyperkalemia, hypercalcemia, or hypernatremia can occur in predisposed individuals.
• Metabolic Alkalosis: Rare but possible due to conversion of lactate into bicarbonate, especially in large volumes.
• Local Reactions: Infusion site pain, phlebitis, or inflammation may occur.
• Allergic Reactions: Rare hypersensitivity responses including rash, itching, or even anaphylaxis in extremely rare cases.

Patients should be closely observed during administration, particularly those with comorbidities like renal insufficiency or congestive heart failure. Laboratory monitoring of serum electrolytes and acid-base status is recommended during prolonged infusion therapy.

(BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN (RINGER LACTATE) Contraindications (BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN (RINGER LACTATE)

There are several clinical scenarios in which (BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN is contraindicated or should be used with extreme caution.

• Hyperkalemia or Hypercalcemia: Presence of elevated potassium or calcium levels can worsen with infusion.
• Severe Renal Impairment: Patients may have difficulty excreting excess electrolytes, risking overload.
• Congestive Heart Failure: May not tolerate increased fluid volumes, leading to decompensation.
• Severe Metabolic or Lactic Acidosis: The solution may not be appropriate due to altered lactate metabolism.
• Concomitant Use with Blood Products: Due to calcium content, may precipitate when mixed with citrate-containing blood products.

Each patient's clinical status and lab values should be reviewed before initiating therapy with this solution. Alternative intravenous fluids may be considered in patients with contraindications.

Storage of (BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN (RINGER LACTATE)

Proper storage conditions are critical to maintaining the sterility and efficacy of (BAXTER) VIAFLO HARTMANN solution.

• Temperature: Store at 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Avoid freezing.
• Protection: Keep in the original outer carton to protect from excessive light and contamination.
• Shelf Life: Use within the indicated expiry date on the bag. Do not use if the solution is cloudy or contains particles.
• After Opening: Single-use only. Discard any unused portion after opening. Do not reconnect partially used bags.
• Handling: Ensure aseptic technique during preparation and administration.

Improper storage can compromise the safety and efficacy of the solution. Always inspect the bag before use, and discard if integrity is compromised.