✅ Uses & Indications
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Ringer’s Injection is indicated for use as a source of water and electrolytes in adults and pediatric patients. Ringer’s Injection is indicated for use as a source of water and electrolytes in adults and pediatric patients. ( 1 )
📏 Dosage & Administration
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION The recommended dosage and duration are based on the patient’s age, weight, clinical condition, and concomitant therapy. ( 2.1 ) To reduce the risk of air embolism, adhere to the preparation instructions. ( 2.2 , 5.2 ) Ringer’s Injection is for intravenous use ( 2.3 ) Do not administer Ringer’s Injection simultaneously with ceftriaxone in neonates (28 days of age or younger) due to serious risks. ( 2.4 ) See full prescribing information for information dosage considerations, preparation, administration, and drug incompatibilities. ( 2 ) 2.1 Dosage Considerations The recommended dosage and duration of Ringer’s Injection is based on the patient’s age, weight, clinical condition, and concomitant therapy. Evaluate the patient’s clinical status and monitor changes in electrolyte concentrations especially during prolonged use of Ringer’s Injection to optimize clinical status. Fluid administration should be based on calculated maintenance or replacement fluid requirements for each patient. 2.2 Important Preparation Instructions Visually inspect the Ringer’s Injection solution for particulate matter and discoloration. Do not administer Ringer’s Injection unless the solution is clear and the container seals are intact. If additives are determined to be compatible with Ringer’s Injection, then using aseptic technique, mix thoroughly; do not store solutions containing additives. After mixing, do not use if there is discoloration or formation of precipitates. To reduce the risk of air embolism, adhere to the following Ringer’s Injection preparation instructions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] : Use a non-vented infusion set or close the vent on a vented set. Use a dedicated line without any connections (do not connect flexible containers in series). The use of pressure infusion is not recommended as a method to increase flow rates. However, if pressure infusion is required, ensure that any air within the bag is fully evacuated prior to initiation of infusion. If using a pumping device to administer Ringer’s Injection, turn off the pump before the container is empty. Preparation Instructions for EXCEL ® Containers Tear overwrap down at notch and remove solution container. Check for minute leaks by squeezing solution container firmly. If leaks are found, discard solution as sterility may be impaired. If supplemental medication is desired, follow directions below before preparing for administration. Inspect each container. Read the label. Ensure solution is the one ordered and is within the expiration date. Invert container and carefully inspect the solution in good light for cloudiness, haze, or particulate matter. Any container which is suspect should not be used. If supplemental medication is desired, follow directions below [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) ] . Preparation for Administration Remove plastic protector from sterile set port at bottom of container. Attach administration set according to its accompanying directions. 2.3 Important Administration Instructions Ringer’s Injection is for intravenous use. Use immediately after opening the container. Discard the unused portion. It is recommended that intravenous administration apparatus be replaced at least once every 24 hours. Some additives may be incompatible [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) ] . To Add Medication Before Solution Administration Prepare medication site. Using syringe with 18-22 gauge needle, puncture medication port and inner diaphragm and inject. Squeeze and tap ports while ports are upright and mix solution and medication thoroughly. To Add Medication During Solution Administration Close clamp on the set. Prepare medication site. Using syringe with 18-22 gauge needle of appropriate length (at least 5/8 inch), puncture resealable medication port and inner diaphragm and inject. Remove container from IV pole and/or turn to an upright position. Evacuate both ports by tapping and squeezing them while container is in the upright position. Mix solution and medication thoroughly. Return container to in use position and continue administration. 2.4 Drug Incompatibilities Do not administer Ringer’s Injection simultaneously with ceftriaxone in neonates (28 days of age or younger) due to serious risks [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. However, in patients older than 28 days, ceftriaxone and Ringer’s Injection may be administered sequentially if the infusion lines are thoroughly flushed between infusions with a compatible fluid [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Do not administer Ringer’s Injection simultaneously with citrate anticoagulated/preserved blood through the same administration set because of the likelihood of coagulation precipitated by the calcium content of Ringer’s Injection.
💊 Side Effects
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Serious Risk with Concomitant Use with Ceftriaxone [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Air Embolism [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Potassium Imbalances [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Hyponatremia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Hypercalcemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Fluid Overload [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of Ringer’s Products. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure: General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions : Phlebitis, extravasation, infusion site inflammation, infusion site swelling, infusion site rash, infusion site pruritus, infusion site erythema, infusion site pain, infusion site burning, and infusion site hypoaesthesia. Hypersensitivity Reactions and Infusion Reactions : Angioedema, chest pain/discomfort, bradycardia or tachycardia, hypotension, respiratory distress, bronchospasm, dyspnea, cough, urticaria, rash, pruritus, erythema, flushing, throat irritation, paresthesia, oral hypoesthesia, dysgeusia, nausea, anxiety, pyrexia, headache, laryngeal edema, sneezing, and injection site infection. Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders : Hyperkalemia, hyponatremia, and hypervolemia. Nervous System Disorders : Hyponatremic encephalopathy. Common adverse reactions include infusion site reactions and symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., pruritus, dyspnea, urticaria, rash, cough). ( 6 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact B. Braun Medical Inc. at 1-833-425-1464 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch .
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Serious Risks with Inappropriate Use with Ceftriaxone : Deaths have occurred in neonates (28 days of age or younger) who received concomitant intravenous calcium-containing solutions with ceftriaxone. In patients older than 28 days, ceftriaxone and Ringer’s Injection may be administered sequentially if the infusion lines are thoroughly flushed between infusions. ( 4 , 5.1 , 8.4 ) Air Embolism : Use a non-vented infusion set or close the vent on a vented set and use a dedicated line without any connections. Pressure infusion is not recommended to increase flow rates, but if necessary, remove all air from the bag prior to initiating infusion. ( 5.2 ) Hypersensitivity Reactions : Stop the Ringer’s Injection infusion immediately if signs or symptoms of a hypersensitivity reaction develop. ( 5.3 ) Potassium Imbalances, Hyponatremia, Hypercalcemia, Fluid Overload : See Full Prescribing Information for risk management recommendations. ( 5.4 , 5.5 , 5.6 , 5.7 ) 5.1 Serious Risk with Concomitant Use with Ceftriaxone Precipitation of ceftriaxone-calcium can occur when ceftriaxone is mixed with calcium-containing solutions, such as Ringer’s Injection in the same intravenous administration line. Deaths have occurred in neonates (28 days of age or younger) who received concomitant intravenous calcium-containing solutions with ceftriaxone resulting from calcium-ceftriaxone precipitates in the lungs and kidneys, even when separate infusion lines were used. Ringer’s Injection is contraindicated in neonates who receive ceftriaxone [see Contraindications (4) , Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ]. However, in patients older than 28 days, ceftriaxone and Ringer’s Injection may be administered sequentially if the infusion lines are thoroughly flushed between infusions with a compatible fluid. 5.2 Air Embolism Cases of air embolism have been reported with pressurized administration of intravenous fluids. Air embolism may result in stroke, organ ischemia and/or infarction, and death. Use a non-vented infusion set or close the vent on a vented set and use a dedicated line without any connections. If administration is controlled by a pumping device, care must be taken to discontinue the pumping action before the container is empty. Pressure infusion is not recommended to increase flow rates, but if necessary, ensure all air is removed from the bag before infusion. Refrain from applying excessive pressure (>300mmHg) causing distortion to the container such as wringing or twisting. Such handling could result in breakage of the container [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) ] . 5.3 Hypersensitivity Reactions Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis and angioedema, have been reported with Ringer’s Injection . Stop the Ringer’s Injection infusion immediately and treat patient accordingly if signs or symptoms of a hypersensitivity reaction develop. Initiate appropriate treatment as clinically indicated. 5.4 Potassium Imbalances Hyperkalemia Potassium-containing solutions, including Ringer’s Injection , may increase the risk of hyperkalemia. This risk is increased in patients predisposed to hyperkalemia including those with severe renal impairment, acute dehydration, extensive tissue injury or burns, heart failure, or in those using concomitant drugs that are associated with hyperkalemia. Avoid use of Ringer’s Injection in patients with, or at increased risk for, hyperkalemia. If use cannot be avoided in these patients, closely monitor serum potassium concentrations. Hypokalemia The potassium concentration in Ringer’s Injection is similar to the concentration in plasma. It is insufficient to normalize the serum potassium in patients with severe hypokalemia. 5.5 Hyponatremia Ringer’s Injection may cause hyponatremia. Hyponatremia can lead to acute hyponatremic encephalopathy characterized by headache, nausea, seizures, lethargy and vomiting. The risk of hospital-acquired hyponatremia is increased in younger pediatric patients, geriatric patients, patients treated with diuretics, and patients with cardiac or pulmonary failure or with the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) (e.g., postoperative patients, patients concomitantly treated with arginine vasopressin analogs or certain antiepileptic, psychotropic, or cytotoxic drugs) [see Drug Interactions (7.1) , Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ] . Avoid Ringer’s Injection in patients with or at risk for hyponatremia. If use cannot be avoided in these patients, closely monitor serum sodium concentrations. Rapid correction of hyponatremia may result in serious neurologic complications such as osmotic demyelination syndrome (ODS). To avoid complications, monitor serum sodium and chloride concentrations, fluid status, acid-base balance, and neurologic status. 5.6 Hypercalcemia Ringer’s Injection contains calcium salts and may cause hypercalcemia. Avoid administration of Ringer’s Injection in patients with hypercalcemia, those with calcium-containing renal calculi or history of such calculi, those with conditions predisposing to hypercalcemia, or those treated with concomitant thiazide diuretics or vitamin D. 5.7 Fluid Overload Depending on the administered volume and the infusion rate, administration of Ringer’s Injection can cause fluid overload, including pulmonary edema. Avoid Ringer’s Injection in patients at risk for fluid and/or solute overload including patients with severe renal impairment. If use cannot be avoided in these patients, monitor fluid balance, electrolyte concentrations and acid base balance, especially during prolonged use.
🔄 Drug Interactions
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Drugs that Affect Electrolyte and/or Fluid Balance : Avoid concomitant use. If concomitant use cannot be avoided, closely monitor electrolyte concentrations and fluid balance. ( 7.1 ) Lithium : Avoid concomitant use. If concomitant use is unavoidable monitor serum lithium concentrations more frequently. ( 7.2 ) Digoxin : Consider reducing the volume or rate of Ringer’s Injection due to the increased risk of digoxin toxicity with calcium-containing solutions. ( 7.3 ) 7.1 Drugs that Affect Electrolyte and/or Fluid Balance Hyperkalemia Administration of Ringer’s Injection to patients concomitantly treated or recently treated with drugs that are associated with hyperkalemia increases the risk of severe and potentially fatal hyperkalemia, especially in the presence of other hyperkalemia risk factors . Avoid use of Ringer’s Injection in patients receiving drugs that are associated with hyperkalemia (e.g., potassium-sparing diuretics, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor antagonists, or calcineurin inhibitors). If concomitant use cannot be avoided, closely monitor serum potassium concentrations during concomitant use [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ]. Hyponatremia Administration of Ringer’s Injection to patients treated concomitantly with drugs associated with hyponatremia may increase the risk of developing hyponatremia. These drugs include diuretics and those that cause SIADH (e.g., arginine vasopressin analogs, certain antiepileptic, psychotropic, or cytotoxic drugs). Avoid use of Ringer’s Injection in patients receiving such drugs. If use cannot be avoided, closely monitor serum sodium concentrations during concomitant use [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] . Hypercalcemia Avoid the use of Ringer’s Injection in patients treated with thiazide diuretics or vitamin D because these drugs can increase the risk of hypercalcemia. If use cannot be avoided, closely monitor serum calcium concentrations during concomitant use [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ]. Hypernatremia and Fluid Retention Administration of Ringer’s Injection to patients treated concomitantly with drugs associated with sodium and fluid retention (e.g., corticosteroids or corticotropin) may increase the risk of hypernatremia and volume overload. Avoid use of Ringer’s Injection in patients receiving such drugs. If use cannot be avoided, closely monitor serum electrolytes, fluid balance, and acid-base balance during concomitant use. 7.2 Lithium Renal sodium and lithium clearance may be increased during concomitant use of Ringer’s Injection and lithium and may result in decreased lithium concentrations. Avoid use of Ringer’s Injection in patients receiving lithium. If use cannot be avoided, increase the frequency of monitoring of serum lithium concentrations during concomitant use. 7.3 Digoxin Administration of calcium via use of Ringer’s Injection may increase digoxin’s effects and lead to digoxin toxicity including serious or fatal cardiac arrhythmias. In digoxin-treated patients, consider reducing the volume and/or rate of Ringer’s Injection administration .
🚫 Contraindications
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Ringer’s Injection is contraindicated in: Neonates (28 days of age or younger) who are receiving concomitant treatment with ceftriaxone, even if separate infusion lines are used, due to the risk of fatal ceftriaxone-calcium salt precipitation in the neonate’s bloodstream [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Specific Populations (8.4) ] . Patients with known hypersensitivity to any components of Ringer’s Injection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ]. Concomitant treatment with ceftriaxone in neonates (28 days of age or younger). ( 4) Patients with known hypersensitivity to Ringer’s Injection. ( 4 )
📦 Storage & Handling
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING How Supplied Ringer’s Injection USP is supplied sterile and nonpyrogenic in single-dose EXCEL ® Containers packaged 12 per case. It is available in the following presentation: NDC REF Size 0264-7780-00 L7800 1000 mL Canada DIN 01936034 Storage and Handling 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.] Minimize exposure of Ringer’s Injection USP to heat. Avoid excessive heat. Protect from freezing.