Description

Lactated Ringer's Solution is a water and electrolyte replenisher. The electrolyte content resembles that of the principal ionic constituents of normal plasma, and the solution is suitable for parenteral replacement of extracellular losses of fluids and electrolytes.

Usage

Lactated Ringer's Solution is an intravenous solution of water and electrolytes (e.g., calcium, potassium, sodium chloride) either with or without calories (dextrose) and is used to treat dehydration following blood loss because of injury, or during surgery.

Dosage and Administration

Lactated Ringers Solution
Method	Dosage	Concentration	Period	Duration
Intravenous injection	2-5 ml/kg	1 ml/ml	1 to 3 times daily	NA
Notes: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Extra-label use of drugs in treating animals is allowable only by licensed veterinarians within the context of a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and does not include drug use in treating animals by the layman (except under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian).

Side Effects

The intravenous administration of this solution can cause fluid and/or solute overloading, resulting in dilution of serum electrolyte concentrations, overhydration, congested states, or pulmonary edema.

Reactions may occur because of the technique of administration, including febrile response, infection at injection site, venous thrombosis, or phlebitis.

Precautions

Clinical evaluation and periodic laboratory tests are necessary to monitor changes in fluid balance, electrolyte concentrations, and acid-base balance during prolonged parenteral therapy or whenever the condition of the horse warrants such evaluation.

Solutions containing calcium ions should not be administered simultaneously through the same administration set as blood because of the likelihood of coagulation.

Lactated Ringer's Solution should be used with care in horses with hyperkalemia, severe renal failure, congestive heart failure, hepatic insufficiency, metabolic or respiratory alkalosis, pulmonary edema, and other conditions as noted by your veterinarian.

Do not administer unless solution is clear and container is undamaged.

Use aseptic technique, mix thoroughly, and do not store.

If adverse reaction occurs, discontinue the infusion, evaluate the horse's condition, institute appropriate therapeutic countermeasures, and save the remainder of the fluid for examination if deemed necessary.

Drug Interactions

Additives may be incompatible. Consult additive manufacturers when introducing additives.

Overdose

In the event of overhydration or solute overload, reevaluate the horse's condition and institute appropriate corrective measures. See package information.