Plasma-Lyte A Main Uses
Fluid and Volume Replacement: Indicated for restoring and maintaining fluid balance in animals experiencing dehydration, blood loss (hemorrhagic shock), or other conditions causing intravascular volume depletion.
Electrolyte Replenishment: Used to correct disturbances in electrolyte balance by providing essential ions such as Sodium, Potassium, and Magnesium.
Alkalinizing Agent: Functions as a source of bicarbonate precursors to help correct or prevent mild to moderate metabolic acidosis (a condition of high acidity in the body fluids).
Pre- and Post-Operative Care: Commonly used as an intraoperative fluid and for fluid maintenance during and after surgery.
 
Plasma-Lyte A Active Ingredients
Active ingredients and their roles (Concentrations per 100 mL):
Sodium Chloride USP: 526 mg
Sodium Gluconate: 502 mg
Sodium Acetate Trihydrate USP: 368 mg
Potassium Chloride USP: 37 mg
Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate USP: 30 mg
pH: 7.4 (adjusted with sodium hydroxide)
Resulting Electrolyte and Anion Concentrations (per Liter):
Sodium: 140 mEq/L — The principal extracellular cation, essential for fluid balance and nerve function.
Chloride: 98 mEq/L — The principal extracellular anion, crucial for osmotic pressure and acid-base balance.
Potassium: 5 mEq/L — Essential for muscle contraction and intracellular function.
Magnesium: 3 mEq/L — A cofactor for numerous enzymes and necessary for neuromuscular activity.
Acetate: 27 mEq/L — A bicarbonate precursor metabolized by the liver, contributing to the alkalinizing effect.
Gluconate: 23 mEq/L — A bicarbonate precursor that contributes to acid-base balance.
Osmolarity: 294 mOsmol/L
 
Plasma-Lyte A Dosage & Administration
The dosage is highly variable and depends on the pet's species, weight, degree of dehydration, underlying health condition, and ongoing fluid losses.
Dosage is determined by a veterinarian based on specific fluid therapy calculations (e.g., replacement, maintenance, and ongoing losses).
The frequency and rate are continuous for acute therapy or adjusted by the veterinarian based on the patient's response and clinical endpoints (e.g., heart rate, blood pressure, urine output).
 
Plasma-Lyte A Side Effects & Safety
Plasma-Lyte A is generally well tolerated when administered correctly. Adverse effects are typically related to rapid administration, excessive volume, or underlying medical conditions. Pets with kidney disease, heart disease, or adrenal disorders may require special caution due to electrolyte shifts.
 
Plasma-Lyte A Manufacturer Information
Manufacturer: Baxter Corporation
Official Website: https://www.baxter.ca/
Brand introduction: Baxter is a multinational medical product company specializing in hospital and critical care products, including a broad portfolio of intravenous (IV) solutions and fluid management technologies used globally in both human and veterinary medicine.