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Electrolyte Solution/Discontinued

SODIUM LACTATE 1/6 MOLAR IN PLASTIC CONTAINER

SODIUM LACTATE 1/6 MOLAR IN PLASTIC CONTAINER

Clinical safety rating

caution

Comprehensive clinical and safety monograph for SODIUM LACTATE 1/6 MOLAR IN PLASTIC CONTAINER (SODIUM LACTATE 1/6 MOLAR IN PLASTIC CONTAINER).


Mechanism of Action

Sodium lactate is a source of bicarbonate precursor. It is metabolized to bicarbonate in the liver, which buffers metabolic acidosis, restoring acid-base balance.

What the body does with it

MetabolismPrimarily hepatic gluconeogenesis; lactate is converted to glucose via the Cori cycle, or oxidized to carbon dioxide and water; metabolism requires adequate liver function.
ExcretionPrimarily renal as bicarbonate and lactate; <5% unchanged.
Half-life30–60 minutes for lactate conversion; bicarbonate component determined by CO2 excretion.
Protein bindingNegligible (<1%); does not bind significantly to plasma proteins.
Volume of Distribution0.4-0.6 L/kg; distributes primarily in extracellular fluid.
BioavailabilityIntravenous: 100%
Onset of ActionIntravenous: 1-2 minutes for buffering effect.
Duration of Action30-120 minutes dependent on metabolic turnover and acid-base status.
Molecular Weight112.06

Classification & Brands

Dosing & administration

Intravenous infusion: The typical adult dose is 300-500 mL of 1/6 Molar sodium lactate solution (approximately 167 mEq/L each of sodium and lactate, 1 L contains 167 mEq of sodium and lactate) administered as a continuous intravenous infusion at a rate of 0.5-2.5 mL/kg/hour, adjusted based on the severity of acidosis and clinical response. Maximum infusion rate: 2.5 mL/kg/hour.

Dosage formINJECTABLE
Renal impairmentContraindicated in severe renal dysfunction (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²) due to risk of hypernatremia and volume overload. In patients with eGFR 30-59 mL/min/1.73 m², use with caution, reduce infusion rate by 25-50%, and monitor serum sodium and fluid balance closely.
Liver impairmentContraindicated in severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C) due to impaired lactate metabolism. In Child-Pugh Class A or B, use with caution, reduce infusion rate by 50%, and monitor arterial blood gases and lactate levels frequently.
Pediatric useIntravenous infusion: Administer 3-5 mL/kg of 1/6 Molar sodium lactate as a bolus over 30 minutes, followed by a continuous infusion at 0.5-1 mL/kg/hour, titrated to correct metabolic acidosis. Maximum infusion rate: 2 mL/kg/hour.
Geriatric useUse with caution due to decreased renal function and higher risk of fluid overload. Start at lower end of dosing range (0.5-1 mL/kg/hour) and monitor serum electrolytes, fluid balance, and renal function closely. Contraindicated if eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m².

Use during pregnancy

1st trimesterSodium lactate is a component of Ringer's lactate solution, used for fluid and electrolyte resuscitation. It is considered safe in pregnancy when clinically indicated, as it is a physiologic substance. No known teratogenic effects in humans.
2nd trimesterSafe when used as directed; monitor maternal electrolytes and fluid balance.
3rd trimesterSafe when used as directed; monitor for fluid overload, especially in preeclampsia.

Clinical note

Comprehensive clinical and safety monograph for SODIUM LACTATE 1/6 MOLAR IN PLASTIC CONTAINER (SODIUM LACTATE 1/6 MOLAR IN PLASTIC CONTAINER).

Placental transferSodium lactate readily crosses the placenta, as it is a small molecule and a normal metabolite. It equilibrates between maternal and fetal compartments.
BreastfeedingSodium lactate is a normal constituent of milk and body fluids. Exogenous administration is unlikely to pose a risk to the nursing infant. However, use only if clearly needed and monitor infant for electrolyte imbalance if high doses are used.
Lactation RatingSafe
Teratogenic RiskSodium lactate is a normal metabolic intermediate and component of IV fluids. No teratogenic effects are known at therapeutic doses. Risk cannot be ruled out in first trimester, but no specific fetal risks are associated with maternal administration of this physiologic compound.
Fetal MonitoringMonitor serum electrolytes, acid-base status, fluid balance, and renal function. In pregnant patients, additional monitoring of uterine activity and fetal heart rate if administering large volumes or in setting of preeclampsia.
Fertility EffectsNo known effects on fertility at therapeutic doses.

Warnings & precautions

■ FDA Black Box Warning

None.

Side Effect Profile

Serious Effects

Absolute Contraindications

Severe metabolic alkalosisHyperlactatemiaSevere hepatic failure (impaired lactate metabolism)Lactic acidosis

Clinical Precautions

PrecautionsUse with caution in patients with impaired liver function, lactic acidosis, or conditions predisposing to lactic acidosis (e.g., shock, hypoxia). Monitor serum electrolytes and acid-base status. Risk of hyperlactatemia if metabolism is impaired.
Food/DietaryNo specific food interactions known. However, patients on sodium-restricted diets should account for the sodium content of this solution (approximately 167 mEq/L).

Clinical Tips & Counseling

Clinical PearlsSodium lactate 1/6 Molar is a crystalloid solution providing approximately 167 mEq/L of sodium and 167 mEq/L of lactate. It is metabolized to bicarbonate in the liver, making it useful for correcting metabolic acidosis, especially in patients with lactic acidosis or those unable to tolerate bicarbonate due to hypocalcemia or hypercapnia. Monitor serum electrolytes, lactate levels, and acid-base status. Avoid in severe liver dysfunction as conversion to bicarbonate is impaired. Use with caution in patients with heart failure or renal impairment due to sodium load. For intravenous use only; do not administer with calcium-containing solutions due to precipitation risk.
Patient AdviceThis medication is a solution that helps correct acid buildup in your blood. · It will be given through a vein (intravenously) by a healthcare professional. · You may need frequent blood tests to monitor your electrolyte levels and acid-base balance. · Inform your doctor if you have liver disease, heart failure, or kidney problems. · Report any signs of fluid overload such as shortness of breath, swelling in the ankles or legs. · Do not take any other medications or supplements without consulting your doctor. · This solution contains sodium; discuss any dietary sodium restrictions with your healthcare provider.

SODIUM LACTATE 1/6 MOLAR IN PLASTIC CONTAINER Interactions

Loading safety data…

This overview is compiled from peer-reviewed clinical sources and FDA labeling. It's here to support — not replace — clinical judgment. Always verify dosing against your institution's current protocols before prescribing.

On this page

Mechanism of ActionDosing & administrationUse during pregnancyWarnings & precautionsDrug interactions

Compare with

ACETATED RINGER'S IN PLASTIC CONTAINERISOLYTE E IN DEXTROSE 5% IN PLASTIC CONTAINERISOLYTE E IN PLASTIC CONTAINERISOLYTE E W/ DEXTROSE 5% IN PLASTIC CONTAINERISOLYTE H IN DEXTROSE 5% IN PLASTIC CONTAINER

External sources

DailyMed (NIH) PubMed OpenFDA