Lactated Ringers Injection
Common Drug Name
Lactated Ringer's Injection (LRS)
Common Brand Names
Multiple manufacturers; no specific brand names.
Storage
Store in manufacturer's packaging at room temperature.
Please Note: The accumulation of a small amount of moisture between the overwrap and the flexible plastic bag containing the fluid is a normal occurrence. If excessive moisture is apparent, please contact our pharmacy.
Uses
Used to maintain hydration or to rehydrate animals in many situations including the treatment of shock, decreased oral fluid intake, and to replace fluids lost due to an illness such as kidney disease.
Dose and Administration
Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty administering this medication, contact your veterinarian.
Dosage varies tremendously depending on pet's size and health, reason for use, and route of administration.
LRS can be given to animals intravenously (IV) or subcutaneously (SQ, subQ, under the skin). The route depends on the animal's size and illness or reason for use.
Always administer using a new, sterile needle.
If you miss a dose, contact your veterinarian.
This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.
Possible Side Effects
Side effects are unlikely if the proper dose is given.
Abscesses or infection may occur at the injection site if a sterile needle and proper technique were not used during administration.
If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Precautions
Not for use in animals who are hyper-sensitive (allergic) to any of the ingredients.
Use with extreme care in animals with heart disease, kidney disease, or obstruction of the urinary tract, since overhydration may more easily occur in these animals (see Signs of Toxicity/Overdose).
Not to be used in animals whose kidneys are not producing urine.
Consult with your veterinarian regarding the physical examinations and laboratory testing necessary prior to and during treatment with Lactated Ringer Injection.
Drug, Food, and Test Interactions
Consult your veterinarian before using lactated ringer injection with any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, since interactions may occur.
Some injectable medications are not compatible with the components in LRS. Consult with your veterinarian before adding any medications to the bag of LRS.
No known food interactions.
Signs of Toxicity/Overdose
If an animal becomes overhydrated (too much fluid is given), blood potassium levels may become too low, causing muscle and heart abnormalities. Signs may include weakness, constipation, rapid breathing, and increased heart rate. Overhydration may also cause fluid to accumulate in the lungs (pulmonary edema) and increase the workload for the heart. Signs may include increased or rapid breathing, coughing, or wheezing.
If you notice any of these signs, stop fluid therapy and contact your veterinarian immediately.
Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children and pets.
