Home Drug Guide Calcium Chloride, Dextrose, Magnesium Sulfate, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Bicarbonate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Phosphate, Dibasic, Heptahydrate

Drug Guide

Generic Name

Calcium Chloride, Dextrose, Magnesium Sulfate, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Bicarbonate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Phosphate, Dibasic, Heptahydrate

Brand Names Elliotts B Solution

Classification

Therapeutic: Electrolyte replacement and correction of electrolyte imbalances

Pharmacological: Electrolyte and acid-base regulators

FDA Approved Indications

Electrolyte replenishment
Treatment of hypocalcemia
Treatment of hypokalemia
Treatment of hypomagnesemia
Treatment of metabolic acidosis
Management of certain cardiac arrhythmias

Mechanism of Action

Provides essential electrolytes and bicarbonate to restore or maintain normal electrolyte and acid-base balance in the body.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Dose varies based on clinical condition; typically administered intravenously with careful monitoring. For example, calcium chloride: 1 g over 10 minutes for severe hypocalcemia.

Pediatric: Dose varies based on age and weight; often weight-based infusion. Consult pediatric dosing guidelines.

Geriatric: Adjust dose based on renal function and electrolyte levels; monitor closely.

Renal Impairment: Use cautiously; monitor electrolyte levels closely.

Hepatic Impairment: No specific adjustment; monitor levels and patient response.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Administered intravenously; bioavailability is 100%.

Distribution: Distributed throughout extracellular fluid; crosses cell membranes to a lesser extent.

Metabolism: Not metabolized; electrolytes are used in various metabolic processes.

Excretion: Excreted primarily via the kidneys.

Half Life: Variable depending on the specific compound and renal function.

Contraindications

Hypercalcemia
Hyperkalemia
Hypermagnesemia
Severe renal impairment
Digoxin toxicity

Precautions

Monitor electrolyte levels frequently during administration.
Use cautiously in patients with cardiac conditions, renal impairment, or those on digitalis.

Adverse Reactions - Common

Phlebitis at infusion site (Common)
Local pain or burning (Common)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

Cardiac arrhythmias (Rare)
Hyperkalemia or hypercalcemia (Rare)
Extravasation leading to tissue necrosis (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

Digoxin (can cause toxicity with alterations in calcium or potassium levels)
Other nephrotoxic drugs

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor electrolyte levels (calcium, potassium, magnesium, bicarbonate), cardiac status, and renal function before and during infusion.

Diagnoses:

Risk for electrolyte imbalance
Risk for tissue injury at infusion site

Implementation: Administer slowly, with infusion rate adjusted based on patient response and laboratory results.

Evaluation: Evaluate clinical response and electrolytes; adjust dosing accordingly.

Patient/Family Teaching

Understand the purpose of the infusion and potential side effects.
Report any pain, swelling, or redness at the infusion site.
Follow instructions for any additional medications or dietary restrictions.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings: N/A

Genetic Factors: None established.

Lab Test Interference: Electrolyte solutions can affect serum electrolyte measurements.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Hypercalcemia, hyperkalemia, arrhythmias, tissue necrosis.

Treatment: Discontinue infusion, provide supportive care, and administer specific antidotes if indicated (e.g., calcium chelators).

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at controlled room temperature away from light.

Stability: Stable until expiration date; must be inspected for particulate matter and discoloration before use.