Target species
Dogs and Cats.
Indications for use, specifying the target species
For maintenance therapy after the fluid balance has been restored. It can be used for the treatment of moderate/prolonged dehydration due to water loss, but in severe cases Aqupharm No. 1 (Sodium Chloride Injection BP) should be given before continuing with Aqupharm No. 18.
Contraindications
Sodium overload may occur in cases with myocardial and renal damage. It should also be appreciated that in the period following surgical interference or severe trauma there may be an inability to excrete excessive sodium.
Special warnings for each target species
In evaluating an animal for possible fluid therapy the state of hydration, electrolyte balance, acid-base balance, renal function and caloric balance should be considered. Evaluation will be based on history, physical examination and laboratory testing.
In animals with potassium deficiency it may be necessary to give additional oral potassium supplements.
Special precautions for use
Special precautions for use in animals
Before use, the bag should be inspected and rejected if the solution is not clear or if the inner container is damaged. The solution should be prewarmed to 37ºC to prevent hypothermia. Thrombosis of a chosen vein is always a possibility with intravenous infusion. If infusion is protracted then another vein should be selected after 12-24 hours.
Special precautions for the person administering the veterinary medicinal product to animals
Wash hands after use.
Other precautions
None.
Adverse reactions (frequency and seriousness)
Hypernatraemia (sodium overload) or an inability to excrete excessive sodium – see Overdose.
Use during pregnancy, lactation or lay
There are no contra-indications to use of this product during pregnancy and lactation.
Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction
Drugs should not be mixed in infusion containers or through the giving sets unless the components are of known compatibility. The user should refer to the manufacturer’s literature for any drug substance which he or she proposes to co-administer, and also to the Appendix of Drug Incompatibilities in the current edition of The Veterinary Formulary.