Sodium bicarbonate 8.4% injectable

Indications

Severe metabolic acidosis.

Forms and strengths

10 ml ampoule.

Composition

• Sodium bicarbonate: 8.4 g per 100 ml.
• Hypertonic solution.
• Sodium: 10 mmol (10 mEq) per 10 ml ampoule.
• Bicarbonate: 10 mmol (10 mEq) per 10 ml ampoule.

Contra-indications, adverse effects, precautions

• Do not use in case of alkalosis or respiratory acidosis.
• Do not administer hypertonic solutions by IM or SC route.
• Administer under close medical supervision, by slow direct IV injection diluted in 5% glucose or by continuous infusion in 5% glucose.
• Do not add penicillins, chloramphenicol, aspirin, atropine, calcium, insulin, vitamins, and similar drugs to sodium bicarbonate solution.
• Contains a high concentration of bicarbonate and sodium ions. Its use is rarely justified in metabolic acidosis caused by dehydration.
• Inaccurate administration may induce hypernatraemia and hypokalaemia.