What is sodium chloride solution-intravenous, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Our body cells are bathed in a watery fluid that
contains primary sodium and chloride ions. These molecules play a vital role in
maintaining proper fluid balance and keeping our tissues hydrated. Additionally,
sodium is involved in many cell processes such as muscle contraction,
transmission of nerve impulses, and kidney function. Chloride ions are
responsible for maintaining the acid-base balance. To sustain life it’s very
important to maintain these ions within a narrow therapeutic range.
Sodium chloride is available in a variety of formulations including:
- nasal
gel, - nasal spray,
- nasal wash,
- nebulizer solution,
- ophthalmic (eye) drops,
- ophthalmic ointment,
- topical solution for irrigation,
- diluent for injection,
- topical spray, and
- solution for intravenous (into the vein) injection.
Sodium chloride was initially approved by the FDA in 1951.
What brand names are available for sodium chloride solution-intravenous?
N/A
Is sodium chloride solution-intravenous available as a generic drug?
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
Do I need a prescription for sodium chloride solution-intravenous?
Yes
What are the side effects of sodium chloride solution-intravenous?
Side effects associated with use of intravenous sodium chloride
include:
- hypernatremia (high levels of sodium),
- fluid retention,
-
high blood
pressure, - heart failure,
- intraventricular hemorrhage in neonates,
- injection site
reactions, - kidney damage,
-
electrolyte abnormalities, and
- others.
What is the dosage for sodium chloride solution-intravenous?
Dosing of sodium chloride intravenous solution varies. Total volume
of administration depends on many factors including condition being treated,
laboratory results, and other patient specific characteristics.
Systemic administration of sodium chloride solution should be done with
extreme caution as rapid or overt administration may cause complications such
as:
- fluid overload,
- pulmonary edema (water in the lungs),
- cell damage,
- severe electrolyte abnormalities,
- brain damage, and
- intraventricular hemorrhage.
Which drugs or supplements interact with sodium chloride solution-intravenous?
Although use of sodium chloride solution has not been associated with any
serious or life threatening drug interactions, unintended increases in sodium
and water retention may occur when used with corticosteroids.
Use of sodium chloride intravenous solution may increase the renal
elimination of lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid). Lithium concentrations and control
of symptoms should be monitored frequently in patients receiving IV
sodium chloride.
Use of tolvaptan (Samsca) with hypertonic preparations of sodium chloride (3%
or 5% solution for injection) is not recommended as rapid correction of
hyponatremia (low levels of sodium in the blood) increases the risk of osmotic
demyelination (nerve damage).
QUESTION
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Is sodium chloride solution-intravenous safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
It is not known if sodium chloride can cause harm to unborn baby.
However, 0.9% sodium chloride (normal saline or NS) has been administered to
pregnant women without any reports of harm. The manufacturer recommends that
sodium chloride should only be administered to pregnant women if clearly needed.
Sodium chloride is classified as FDA pregnancy risk category C (Animal
reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no
adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may
warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.).
It is not known if sodium chloride is excreted into human
milk. As 0.9% sodium chloride solution has the same osmotic pressure as that in
the serum, risk of adverse effects with its use during breastfeeding is
considered minimal. However, sodium chloride bacteriostatic injection should be
used cautiously in nursing mothers as the benzyl alcohol preservative found in
the solution has been found to cause adverse events in the nursing infant.
What else should I know about sodium chloride solution-intravenous?
What preparations of sodium chloride solution-intravenous are available?
- Sodium chloride diluent for injection: 0.9%
- Sodium chloride solution for injection: 0.9% prefilled syringe, normal saline
flush 0.9% solution, sodium chloride 0.45% solution (1/2 NS), sodium chloride
hypertonic 3% solution, sodium chloride hypertonic 5% solution.
How should I keep sodium chloride solution-intravenous stored?
Sodium chloride preparations should be stored at room temperature
between 59 F to 86 F (15 C to 30 C).