Vetivex 9 (Ringer's Solution for Infusion)

Vetivex 9 (Ringer's Solution for Infusion).

Target species:
Cattle, calves, horses, dogs and cats.

Indications for use:
This product is administered by intravenous infusion for the treatment of dehydration in cattle, calves, horses, dogs and cats. It may be used to correct volume depletion resulting from shock or gastrointestinal disease, especially where hypokalaemia is present (e.g. in cases of sustained vomiting).

Special precautions for use in animals:
Ringer's solution for infusion should be warmed to approximately 37°C prior to the administration of large volumes, or if the administration rate is high, in order to avoid hypothermia.

This product should be used with caution in animals with cardiac or renal impairment as sodium overload may occur.

Maintain aseptic precautions.

Adverse reactions:
There is a risk of thrombosis with intravenous infusion.

Excessive infusion rates can cause restlessness, moist lung sounds, tachycardia, tachypnoea, nasal discharge, coughing, vomiting and diarrhoea.

Use during pregnancy and lactation:
Use under veterinary supervision.

Amounts to be administered and administration route:
Ringer's solution for infusion should ideally be warmed to approximately 37°C prior to administration.

The volume and rate of infusion will depend upon the clinical condition, existing deficits of the animal, maintenance needs and continuing losses.

Generally aim to correct hypovolaemia by 50% initially (ideally over 6 hours but faster if necessary) and reassess by clinical examination.

Deficits are generally in the range of 50 ml/kg (mild) to 150 ml/kg (severe). An infusion rate of 15 ml/kg/hour is recommended in the absence of shock (range 5-75 ml/kg/hour).

In shock, high initial infusion rates, up to 90 ml/kg/hour, are needed. High infusion rates should not be continued for longer than 1 hour unless urine output is restored. The maximum infusion rate should be decreased in the presence of cardiac, renal and pulmonary disease.

Do not use unless the solution is clear, free from visible particles and the container is undamaged.

The product does not contain an antimicrobial preservative. It is intended for single use only and any unused contents should be discarded.

Overdose:
Monitor fluid output. Administration of a diuretic may be necessary.

Withdrawal periods:
Zero days.

Pharmacodynamic properties:
This product replaces depleted water and electrolytes when administered via the intravenous route. It will restore extracellular volume and, where metabolic alkalosis is present, it will help to correct it.

Pharmacokinetic properties:
Intravenous infusion ensures rapid distribution. The constituents of the infusion solution will be metabolised and excreted through the same pathways as those substances derived from normal sources.

Pharmaceutical particulars:
Shelf life:
Shelf life of the veterinary medicinal product as packaged for sale: 2 years.

Special precautions for storage:
Do not store above 25°C. Do not freeze.

Immediate packaging:
Presented in polyvinylchloride (PVC) infusion bags, overwrapped with polypropylene, in cartons of 50 x 100 ml, 20 x 250 ml, 20 x 500 ml, 10 x 1000 ml, 4 x 2000 ml, 4 x 3000 ml and 2 x 5000 ml.

Not all pack sizes may be marketed.

Each carton contains a sufficient number of package leaflets so that individual units may be supplied.

Disposal:
Any unused veterinary medicinal product or waste materials derived from such veterinary medicinal products should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.