Sodium Lactate

Indications

Sodium Lactate is used in intravenous (IV) fluids. On its own it is used to correct mild to moderate metabolic acidosis (too much acid in the blood). It is most often given as part of compound solutions such as Ringer's lactate (also called Hartmann's solution), which also contain sodium chloride, potassium and calcium, to replace lost body fluids and salts after surgery, bleeding, burns, dehydration from diarrhoea or vomiting, and in many hospital settings.

How It Works

The sodium and water in the solution restore blood volume and body fluids. The lactate is taken up mainly by the liver and turned into bicarbonate, the body's natural buffer, which helps reduce excess acid in the blood.

Dosage and Administration

Sodium Lactate solutions are given by a doctor or nurse as a drip into a vein. The amount and rate are decided by the doctor according to the patient's age, weight, condition, fluid balance and blood tests, and are given as prescribed.

Interactions

Solutions containing calcium (such as Ringer's lactate) must not be mixed or given in the same line with Ceftriaxone, and may form deposits with some other medicines or with blood transfusions. Lactate solutions can affect the levels of medicines that depend on urine acidity, such as Lithium and Salicylates. Medicines that cause the body to retain sodium, such as corticosteroids, need extra care.

Contraindications

Should not be used in lactic acidosis, severe liver failure (lactate cannot be converted), metabolic or respiratory alkalosis, fluid overload, or, for solutions containing potassium or calcium, in high blood potassium or calcium levels.

Side Effects

Possible problems include pain, redness or swelling where the drip enters the vein, fluid overload with swelling or breathlessness, changes in blood salt levels, and alkalosis (blood becoming too alkaline) with muscle twitching. Allergic reactions are rare.

Tell the nurse or doctor at once, or get urgent medical help, if you have breathlessness, chest tightness, swelling of the face or body, rash or itching, muscle cramps or twitching, confusion, or pain and swelling at the drip site.

Pregnancy and Lactation

These fluids may be used during pregnancy, labour and breastfeeding when needed, under medical supervision with careful monitoring of fluids and salts.

Precautions and Warnings

Used with care in people with heart failure, kidney disease, liver disease, high blood pressure, swelling, or in older people and young children. Blood salts, acid balance and fluid balance are checked during treatment. Ringer's lactate is not suitable for treating lactic acidosis and is used with care in diabetes, as lactate can be turned into glucose.

Overdose

Too much fluid can cause swelling, breathlessness and high blood pressure, and too much lactate can cause alkalosis. The drip is slowed or stopped and the doctor treats the symptoms.

Therapeutic Class

Intravenous fluid and electrolyte replenisher, alkalinising agent.

Storage

Store below 30°C, do not freeze. Use only if the solution is clear and the container is intact. In hospital, store as directed on the pack.