Lactated Ringer's solution is an electrolyte solution primarily used in clinical treatment to replenish fluids and maintain electrolyte balance. Its components include sodium chloride, potassium chloride, calcium chloride, and sodium lactate, which provide the necessary sodium, potassium, and calcium ions for the human body, and are slowly metabolized into bicarbonate to regulate blood pH. The composition of this solution closely resembles extracellular fluid, making it widely used in surgeries, trauma, or severe dehydration cases requiring rapid fluid replacement.
This medication is administered via intravenous infusion and must be operated by healthcare professionals within medical facilities. Its core functions are to maintain circulating blood volume, electrolyte stability, and acid-base balance, especially effective for fluid deficits caused by heavy sweating, bleeding, or gastrointestinal losses.
The scientific name of this medication is “Lactated Ringer's Solution.” Common commercial names in Taiwan, Hong Kong, and international markets include:
Lactated Ringer's solution is classified as an “Electrolyte Replacement Solution” and “Intravenous Fluid,” and is a prescription medication. It is also considered a “Volume Expander” used to treat circulatory instability caused by fluid loss.
Main indications and conditions:
This medication can also be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as fluid balance adjustment after chemotherapy, or as a carrier solution for administering other drugs.
Mild side effects:
Serious side effects requiring immediate discontinuation:
Contraindications:
Pregnancy and Lactation: Pregnant women may use if necessary, with monitoring of blood lactate levels. Lactating women should use after medical assessment; there is currently no evidence of transmission through breast milk affecting the infant.
Use with diuretics (such as furosemide) may exacerbate electrolyte imbalances and require adjustment of infusion rate. When used with anticoagulants (such as warfarin), calcium ions in the solution may reduce anticoagulant efficacy.
Avoid mixing with calcium-containing antibiotics (such as vancomycin) to prevent precipitation. When using digoxin, monitor blood sodium and potassium levels to prevent toxicity.
The dosage depends on the patient's weight, age, and severity of illness. The common initial dose for adults is 100-200 c.c. per hour, with pediatric doses calculated based on weight. Infusion is administered via intravenous puncture or central venous catheter, with the speed adjusted dynamically by healthcare staff based on blood pressure and urine output.
Do not adjust the infusion rate or concentration on your own. Too rapid infusion may cause pulmonary edema, while too slow may not effectively improve dehydration. Special populations (such as the elderly or cardiac patients) should have a reduced initial infusion rate.
This medication must be administered in a medical facility. If a scheduled infusion is missed, notify healthcare personnel immediately to reschedule. In emergency situations causing delays, medical staff will reassess the infusion plan based on current blood pressure and laboratory results.
Over-infusion may lead to hypernatremia or metabolic alkalosis, with symptoms such as tremors, altered consciousness, or muscle weakness. Infusion should be stopped immediately, and dialysis or buffering agents should be administered to neutralize the excess.
If cardiac arrest or other emergencies occur, perform CPR and monitor electrolytes. Do not attempt self-treatment; seek immediate medical attention.
The infusion rate should be adjusted according to the patient's age, weight, and severity of illness. Too fast may overload the heart, especially in patients with cardiac or renal impairment, potentially causing pulmonary edema or blood pressure abnormalities. Healthcare providers monitor vital signs (such as heart rate and blood pressure) to determine an appropriate rate.
What symptoms might indicate electrolyte imbalance during Lactated Ringer's use?If muscle weakness, cramps, palpitations, or unexplained vomiting occur, these may be signs of abnormal sodium or potassium levels. For long-term use or when combined with diuretics, doctors regularly check blood tests to monitor electrolytes and kidney function, ensuring safety.
What precautions should be taken when combining Lactated Ringer's with antibiotics or analgesics?Some antibiotics (such as aminoglycosides) may interact with sodium ions in Lactated Ringer's, increasing nephrotoxicity risk. Inform healthcare providers of all medications being taken and follow their instructions for dose adjustment or monitoring.
Are there dietary restrictions for patients receiving Lactated Ringer's?If patients have hypercalcemia or hyperkalemia, they should avoid excessive intake of dairy products or high-potassium foods (such as bananas, spinach). Doctors may recommend a low-sodium diet to prevent electrolyte imbalance and reduce renal metabolic burden.
When should Lactated Ringer's be discontinued immediately?If symptoms such as difficulty breathing, severe edema, altered consciousness, or markedly reduced urine output occur, these may indicate allergic reactions or acute renal failure. Immediate medical evaluation and intervention, such as dialysis, are necessary.
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