Generic
Sodium Chloride
10 brands available in the market
At a glance
Sodium Chloride is a saline solution used for dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, nasal dryness, wound cleansing, and medication dilution. It restores the body's salt and electrolyte levels.
Description
Sodium Chloride is a purified salt solution that is the major extracellular electrolyte. It helps control extracellular volume and blood pressure. As nasal drops, it moisturizes the nasal mucosa, dissolves thick or crusty mucus, and makes breathing easier. Intravenously, it provides fluid and electrolyte replacement.
Indications
- Dry nasal membranes (from cold and allergy medications)
- Dry nose from dry climates or airplane travel
- Wound cleansing (body parts and medical equipment)
- Diluent for other medications
- Metabolic alkalosis
- Fluid replacement in gastroenteritis
- Priming fluid for hemodialysis
- Phlegm thinning in bronchiolitis, asthma, COPD (nebulizer)
- Reducing corneal swelling (ophthalmic)
Therapeutic class
Intravenous Fluid Preparations / Nasal Decongestants
Pharmacological class
Electrolyte Replacement Agent
Pharmacology
Sodium Chloride is the major extracellular cation, important in electrolyte and fluid balance, osmotic pressure control, and water distribution. As a nasal drop, it moisturizes the nose and dissolves thick mucus. Intravenously, it provides hydration, treats metabolic alkalosis, and serves as a priming solution for hemodialysis.
Mechanism of action
Restores body salt and electrolyte levels, moisturizes nasal mucosa, and dissolves mucus.
Dosage
Nasal Drop (Nasal Congestion):
- Infants, children & adults: 2 drops in each nostril, 1-4 times daily
Nasal Spray:
- Newborn to 12 months: 1 spray into each nostril 2-3 times daily
- >12 months & adults: 1-2 sprays into each nostril 2-3 times daily
Intravenous (Adult):
- Usually 1000 ml of 0.9% solution (depends on age, weight, clinical condition)
Nebulizer:
- 4 ml nebulized for 20 minutes, 4 times daily (all ages)
Administration
- Nasal drops/spray: Use as directed; do not share the bottle
- Intravenous: Administered only by a healthcare professional
- Nebulizer: Use as directed by a physician
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, consult your doctor.
Side effects
Side Effects:
- Nasal: Stinging, sneezing, increased nasal discharge, salty taste (occasional)
- Intravenous: Fever, injection site infection, venous thrombosis, phlebitis, extravasation, hypervolemia
- Ophthalmic: Temporary blurred vision, burning/irritation
Precautions & warnings
- Caution in heart disease (CHF), lung problems (pulmonary edema), kidney disease
- Caution in hypokalemia and hypernatremia
- Avoid excessive administration (may cause hypokalemia)
- Do not use IV solution if cloudy or contains particles
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any ingredient
Drug interactions
- May affect serum lithium concentrations
Food interactions
It is not known whether alcohol is safe with Sodium Chloride; consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Safe when used as directed; use if clearly needed; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Unknown if excreted in breast milk; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Indicated for children (age and weight-based dosing)
Geriatric use
Caution required in elderly patients
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Avoid or use with caution in kidney disease; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution required in liver disease; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
IV overdose may cause hypernatremia, hyperchloremia, and hypervolemia; provide symptomatic treatment.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Sodium Chloride