Drug Guide

Generic Name

Sodium Succinate

Brand Names

Classification

Therapeutic: Electrolyte and metabolic supplement

Pharmacological: Salt of succinic acid, involved in the Krebs cycle

FDA Approved Indications

  • Metabolic support in critical illness or conditions involving metabolic disturbances

Mechanism of Action

Provides succinate ions which enter the Krebs cycle, promoting energy production and supporting metabolic processes.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Dose varies depending on clinical condition; typically administered IV under medical supervision.

Pediatric: Use with caution; dosing depends on age and weight, typically administered IV in hospital settings.

Geriatric: Adjust dose as needed; monitor for fluid and electrolyte balance.

Renal Impairment: Adjust dose; monitor renal function and electrolytes.

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; hepatic function may influence metabolism.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Via intravenous administration; bioavailability not applicable.

Distribution: Distributed in extracellular fluid; does not significantly bind plasma proteins.

Metabolism: Metabolized in the Krebs cycle within cells.

Excretion: Excreted mainly via urine as metabolites.

Half Life: Approximate half-life not well-established; depends on renal function.

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to succinate salts.

Precautions

  • Use with caution in patients with renal impairment, congestive heart failure, or edema; monitor electrolyte levels and acid-base status.

Adverse Reactions - Common

  • Injection site pain or swelling (Rare)
  • Electrolyte imbalance (Rare)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

  • Hypernatremia, pulmonary edema, fluid overload (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

  • Potential interactions with other electrolytes or nephrotoxic drugs; monitor accordingly.

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor electrolyte levels, renal function, fluid status, and cardiovascular status.

Diagnoses:

  • Fluid volume overload
  • Electrolyte imbalance

Implementation: Administer IV as prescribed; monitor for adverse reactions.

Evaluation: Assess for signs of fluid overload, electrolyte disturbances, and overall response to therapy.

Patient/Family Teaching

  • Report any swelling, difficulty breathing, or signs of electrolyte imbalance.
  • Maintain follow-up appointments for lab monitoring.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings: N/A

Genetic Factors: N/A

Lab Test Interference: May affect serum electrolyte measurements or acid-base status.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Fluid overload, hypernatremia, pulmonary edema.

Treatment: Discontinue infusion, provide supportive care, and correct electrolyte imbalance as needed.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at room temperature, protected from moisture and light.

Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions.

This guide is for educational purposes only and is not intended for clinical use.