Ringer Lactate provides appropriate amounts of sodium and calcium and 4 mEq of potassium/litre, which is sufficient for short-term use. It contains lactate which is converted to bicarbonate for correction of metabolic acidosis when it exists (if haemodynamic and liver function are
normal).
Warning, some commercially available solutions do not contain lactate.
Contra-indications, adverse effects, precautions
In cases of metabolic alkalosis, diabetes, severe renal or hepatic failure, hyperkalemia, head injury: isotonic solutionof NaCl 0.9% is preferred.
Remarks
After infusion, Ringer lactate remains in the intravascular compartment for 1 to 2 hours.
For correction of hypovolaemia due to haemorrhage; administer 3 times the lost volume only if:
blood loss does not exceed 1500 ml in adults;
cardiac and renal function are not impaired.
Ringer lactate may also be used to prevent hypotension induced by spinal anaesthesia.
Also comes in a premixed solution of 5% glucose/Ringer lactate, which is the preferred infusion solution for maintenance fluids in children.
For moderate and mild dehydration, administer oral rehydration salts (ORS).