Target species
Cattle, calves, horses, dogs and cats.
Indications for use
This product is administered by intravenous infusion for the treatment of dehydration in cattle, calves, horses, dogs and cats. It may be used to correct volume depletion resulting from shock or gastrointestinal disease, especially where hypokalaemia is present (e.g. in cases of sustained vomiting).
Special precautions for use in animals
Ringer’s solution for infusion should be warmed to approximately 37°C prior to the administration of large volumes, or if the administration rate is high, in order to avoid hypothermia.
This product should be used with caution in animals with cardiac or renal impairment as sodium overload may occur.
Maintain aseptic precautions.
Adverse reactions
There is a risk of thrombosis with intravenous infusion.
Excessive infusion rates can cause restlessness, moist lung sounds, tachycardia, tachypnoea, nasal discharge, coughing, vomiting and diarrhoea.
Use during pregnancy and lactation
Use under veterinary supervision.
Amounts to be administered and administration route
Ringer’s solution for infusion should ideally be warmed to approximately 37°C prior to administration.
The volume and rate of infusion will depend upon the clinical condition, existing deficits of the animal, maintenance needs and continuing losses.
Generally aim to correct hypovolaemia by 50% initially (ideally over 6 hours but faster if necessary) and reassess by clinical examination.
Deficits are generally in the range of 50 ml/kg (mild) to 150 ml/kg (severe). An infusion rate of 15 ml/kg/hour is recommended in the absence of shock (range 5-75 ml/kg/hour).
In shock, high initial infusion rates, up to 90 ml/kg/hour, are needed. High infusion rates should not be continued for longer than 1 hour unless urine output is restored. The maximum infusion rate should be decreased in the presence of cardiac, renal and pulmonary disease.
Do not use unless the solution is clear, free from visible particles and the container is undamaged.
The product does not contain an antimicrobial preservative. It is intended for single use only and any unused contents should be discarded.
Overdose
Monitor fluid output. Administration of a diuretic may be necessary.
Withdrawal periods
Zero days.