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Lactated Ringers
SODIUM CHLORIDE, SODIUM LACTATE, POTASSIUM CHLORIDE, and CALCIUM CHLORIDE · Irrigant
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC Directory| Ingredient | Strength | RxCUI | Monograph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calcium Chloride | .02 g/100mL | 828525 | View |
| Calcium Chloride | 20 mg/100mL | 828525 | View |
| Calcium Chloride | 200 mg/1000mL | 828525 | View |
| Potassium Chloride | .03 g/100mL | 628953 | View |
| Potassium Chloride | 30 mg/100mL | 628953 | View |
| Potassium Chloride | 300 mg/1000mL | 628953 | View |
| Sodium Chloride | .6 g/100mL | 707251 | View |
| Sodium Chloride | 6 g/1000mL | 707251 | View |
| Sodium Chloride | 600 mg/100mL | 707251 | View |
| Sodium Lactate | .31 g/100mL | 799999 | View |
| Sodium Lactate | 3.1 g/1000mL | 799999 | View |
| Sodium Lactate | 310 mg/100mL | 799999 | View |
Forms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Acidifying Activity [MoA] | MoA | All 14 members |
| Blood Coagulation Factor [EPC] | EPC | All 23 members |
| Calcium [CS] | CS | All 23 members |
| Cations | EPC | All 23 members |
| Divalent [CS] | CS | All 23 members |
| Increased Coagulation Factor Activity [PE] | PE | All 23 members |
| Increased Large Intestinal Motility [PE] | PE | All 83 members |
| Inhibition Large Intestine Fluid/Electrolyte Absorption [PE] | PE | All 83 members |
| Osmotic Activity [MoA] | MoA | All 105 members |
| Osmotic Laxative [EPC] | EPC | All 103 members |
| Phosphate Binder [EPC] | EPC | All 42 members |
| Phosphate Chelating Activity [MoA] | MoA | All 42 members |
| Potassium Compounds [CS] | CS | All 49 members |
| Potassium Salt [EPC] | EPC | All 49 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 019416-001 | LACTATED RINGER'S IN PLASTIC CONTAINER | SOLUTION | CALCIUM CHLORIDE; POTASSIUM CHLORIDE; SODIUM CHLORIDE; SODIUM LACTATE | Prescription | AT | RLD RS |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated (topical dermatological products)
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 32 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | August 15, 2014 | Standard |
| Supplement | 15 | Labeling | Approved | December 13, 1999 | — |
| Supplement | 17 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | August 21, 1997 | Standard |
| Supplement | 16 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | June 11, 1997 | Standard |
| Supplement | 14 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | August 27, 1996 | Standard |
| Supplement | 12 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | January 28, 1992 | Standard |
| Supplement | 11 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | September 10, 1991 | Standard |
| Supplement | 8 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | February 22, 1990 | Standard |
| Supplement | 9 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | January 11, 1990 | Standard |
| Supplement | 4 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | June 22, 1989 | Standard |
| Supplement | 7 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | June 14, 1989 | Standard |
| Supplement | 3 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | November 26, 1986 | Standard |
| Supplement | 2 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | August 8, 1986 | Standard |
| Supplement | 1 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | May 13, 1986 | Standard |
| Original application | 1 | Type 5 - New Formulation or New Manufacturer | Approved | January 17, 1986 | Standard |
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20251023). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug LabelingINDICATIONS AND USAGE Lactated Ringer’s Irrigation is indicated for use as an arthroscopic irrigating fluid with endoscopic instruments during arthroscopic procedures requiring distension and irrigation of the knee, shoulder, elbow, or other bone joints.
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug LabelingDOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION The volume and/or rate of solution needed will vary with the nature and duration of the arthroscopic procedure. This solution, as it is packaged, is not intended for IV administration or injection. The container must not be vented (See Precautions ). Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration whenever solution and container permit. Do not administer unless the solution is clear and the seal is intact. If particulate matter or discoloration is found, contact Baxter Customer Service Aseptic technique should be used when applying this product. The contents of an opened container should be used promptly to minimize the possibility of bacterial growth or pyrogen formation. Discard the unused portion of irrigating solution since no antimicrobial agent has been added. When using Lactated Ringer’s Irrigation for pour irrigation, prevent contact of the fluid with the external surface of the container. Lactated Ringer’s Irrigation is for single-patient use only. Microwave heating of irrigation fluids is not recommended. If desired, Lactated Ringer’s Irrigation may be warmed in a water bath or oven to not more than 45° C while maintaining sterility. Lactated Ringer’s Irrigation that has been warmed must not be returned to storage. Cetriaxone must not be mixed with calcium-containing solutions, including Lactated Ringer’s Irrigation. Additives may be incompatible with Lactated Ringer’s Irrigation. Additives known or determined to be incompatible should not be used. As with all parenteral solutions, compatibility of the additives with the solution must be assessed before addition, by checking for, for example, a possible color change and/or the appearance of precipitates, insoluble complexes, or crystals. Before adding a substance or medication, verify that it is soluble and/or stable in water and that the pH range of Lactated Ringer’s Irrigation is appropriate. The instructions for use of the medication to be added and other relevant literature must be consulted. When making additions to Lactated Ringer’s Irrigation, aseptic technique must be used. Mix the solution thoroughly when additives have been introduced. Do not store solutions containing additives.
Contraindications
openFDA Drug LabelingCONTRAINDICATIONS NOT FOR INJECTION BY USUAL PARENTERAL ROUTES. An electrolyte solution should not be used for irrigation during electrosurgical procedures.
Warnings
openFDA Drug LabelingWARNINGS Absorption of large volume of irrigation fluids through a perforation or open wound may result in circulatory overload, cardiac failure, or electrolyte disturbances and acid-base imbalance. Patients and fluid balance should be monitored accordingly. If absorption of clinically relevant amounts of fluid is suspected, the fluid administration should be interrupted, and the patient evaluated for possible adverse consequences. Particularly close monitoring is required in patients with: • Severely impaired renal function • Impaired cardiac function, or • Clinical states in which there is edema with sodium retention as a fluid overload syndrome may develop in these patients following absorption of even small quantities of irrigation fluid. Appropriate therapy should be initiated, as indicated. Lactated Ringer’s Irrigation must not be used when types of electrocautery are used that are not safe and effective when performed in the presence of electrolyte solutions. Excessive volume or pressure during irrigation may cause excessive fluid absorption, undue distention of cavities, and/or disruption of tissue.
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug LabelingADVERSE REACTIONS Post-Marketing Adverse Reactions No adverse reactions were identified in Baxter’s Adverse Event Reporting System database with Lactated Ringer’s Irrigation. Class Reactions Adverse reactions reported with Lactated Ringer’s Irrigation (manufacturer unspecified) are: Fluid absorption manifested by Pulmonary edema, Edema, and Electrolyte disturbances. Though not indicated for intravenous administration, absorption of irrigation fluid into tissue or vasculature through a perforation or open wound is possible. As a result, adverse reactions reported with Lactated Ringer’s solutions with and without Dextrose for intravenous administration may be applicable and include: • Hypersensitivity reactions, including Anaphylactic/Anaphylactoid reactions, with the following manifestations: Angioedema, Chest pain, Chest discomfort, Decreased heart rate, Tachycardia, Blood pressure decreased, Respiratory distress, Bronchospasm, Dyspnea, Cough, Urticaria, Rash, Pruritus, Erythema, Flushing, Throat irritation, Paresthesias, Hypoesthesia oral, Dysgeusia, Nausea, Anxiety, Headache, Hyperkalemia • Pyrexia Overdose In the event of clinically relevant absorption of irrigation fluid, the patients must be evaluated and corrective measures instituted as appropriate.
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug LabelingDrug Interactions If clinically relevant amounts of solution have been absorbed, potential interactions with other agents must be considered, such as: Patients treated with drugs that may increase the risk of sodium and fluid retention, such as corticosteroids and carbenoxolone, may have an increased risk of sodium and fluid retention. Due to the alkalinizing action of lactate (formation of bicarbonate), Lactated Ringer’s Irrigation may interfere with the elimination of drugs for which renal elimination is pH dependent: • Renal clearance of acidic drugs such as salicylates, barbiturates, and lithium may be increased. • Renal clearance of alkaline drugs, such as sympathomimetics (e.g., ephedrine, pseudoephedrine), dextroamphetamine (dexamphetamine) sulfate, and fenfluramine (phenfluramine) hydrochloride may be decreased. The risk of hyperkalemia is increased in patients treated with agents or products that can cause hyperkalemia or increase the risk of hyperkalemia, such as potassium-sparing diuretics (amiloride, spironolactone, triameterene), with ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor antagonists, or the immunosuppressants tacrolimus and cyclosporine. Administration of potassium in patients treated with such medications can produce severe and potentially fatal hyperkalemia, particularly in patients with severe renal insufficiency. Absorption of calcium-containing solutions may increase the effects of digitalis and lead to serious or fatal cardiac arrhythmia. In patients treated with thiazide diuretics or vitamin D, the risk of hypercalcemia is increased.
Description
openFDA Drug LabelingDESCRIPTION Lactated Ringer’s Irrigation is a sterile, nonpyrogenic solution of electrolytes in water for injection intended only for sterile irrigation, washing and rinsing purposes. The composition is based on a modification of the injectable formula originally known as Hartmann’s Solution. Each 100 mL of Lactated Ringer’s Irrigation contains: Sodium chloride 600 mg; sodium lactate, anhydrous 310 mg; potassium chloride 30 mg; calcium chloride, dihydrate 20 mg. The pH is 6.6 (6.0 — 7.5). The solution is isotonic (274 mOsmol/liter, calc.) and has the following electrolyte content (mEq/liter): Sodium (Na + ) 130; potassium (K + ) 4; calcium (Ca ++ ) 3; chloride (Cl − ) 109 and lactate (CH 3 CH(OH)COO − ) 28. Contains sodium hydroxide and may contain hydrochloric acid for pH adjustment. The solution contains no bacteriostat, antimicrobial agent or added buffer and is intended only for use as a single-dose or short procedure irrigation. When smaller volumes are required, the unused portion should be discarded. Lactated Ringer’s Irrigation may be classified as a sterile irrigant, wash, rinse and pharmaceutical vehicle. Calcium Chloride, USP is chemically designated calcium chloride, dihydrate (CaCl 2 • 2H 2 O), white fragments or granules freely soluble in water. Potassium Chloride, USP is chemically designated KCl, a white granular powder freely soluble in water. Sodium Chloride, USP is chemically designated NaCl, a white crystalline powder freely soluble in water. Sodium Lactate, USP is chemically designated C 3 H 5 NaO 3 , a 60% aqueous solution miscible in water. It has the following structural formula: Water for Injection, USP is chemically designated H 2 O. The flexible plastic container is fabricated from a specially formulated polyvinylchloride. Water can permeate from inside the container into the overwrap but not in amounts sufficient to affect the solution significantly. Solutions inside the plastic container also can leach out certain of its chemical components in very small amounts before the expiration period is attained. However, the safety of the plastic has been confirmed by tests in animals according to USP biological standards for plastic containers. structural formula sodium lactate
Overdosage
openFDA Drug LabelingOVERDOSAGE In the event of overhydration or solute overload, re-evaluate the patient and institute appropriate corrective measures. (See WARNINGS , PRECAUTIONS and ADVERSE REACTIONS .)
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug LabelingHOW SUPPLIED Lactated Ringer's Irrigation is supplied sterile and nonpyrogenic in PICTM (Plastic Irrigation Container). The 1000 mL containers are packaged 16 per case. NDC Cat. No. Size Lactated Ringer's Irrigation 0264-2203-00 R5410-01 1000 mL Exposure of pharmaceutical products to heat should be minimized. Avoid excessive heat. Protect from freezing. Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] However, brief exposure up to 40°C does not adversely affect the product. Do not warm above 150°F (66°C).
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: SODIUM CHLORIDE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0264-2203-00 | 0264-2203 | B. Braun Medical Inc. | 16 CONTAINER in 1 CASE (0264-2203-00) / 1000 mL in 1 CONTAINER | December 27, 1982 |
| 0338-0137-27 | 0338-0137 | Baxter Healthcare Company | 3000 mL in 1 BAG (0338-0137-27) | April 3, 1984 |
| 0338-0137-29 | 0338-0137 | Baxter Healthcare Company | 5000 mL in 1 BAG (0338-0137-29) | April 3, 1984 |
| 0338-0114-04 | 0338-0114 | Baxter Healthcare Corporation | 12 BOTTLE, PLASTIC in 1 CARTON (0338-0114-04) / 1000 mL in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC | February 19, 1982 |
| 0990-7828-08 | 0990-7828 | ICU Medical Inc. | 4 POUCH in 1 CASE (0990-7828-08) / 1 BAG in 1 POUCH / 3000 mL in 1 BAG | July 1, 2019 |
| 0264-2203 | 0264-2203 | B. Braun Medical Inc. | — | December 27, 1982 |
| 0338-0137 | 0338-0137 | Baxter Healthcare Company | — | April 3, 1984 |
| 0338-0114 | 0338-0114 | Baxter Healthcare Corporation | — | February 19, 1982 |
| 0990-7828 | 0990-7828 | ICU Medical Inc. | — | July 1, 2019 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 12 sections on this page.