Sodium Chloride 1gm Tablets
It is used to treat low sodium levels. It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
Drug Class
Electrolyte Replenisher
Pharmacologic Class
Electrolyte
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Sodium chloride is a common salt that your body needs to work properly. It helps keep the right balance of fluids in your body and is important for your nerves and muscles. These tablets are used to replace salt that your body might lose, for example, if you sweat a lot or have certain medical conditions.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. You can take the tablets with or without food. If you experience stomach upset, taking the medication with food may help. You also have the option to dissolve the tablet in water before drinking it.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry location, avoiding the bathroom. Protect it from heat and keep it out of reach of children and pets. When disposing of unused or expired medication, do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult your pharmacist for guidance on the best disposal method. You may also want to explore local drug take-back programs.
Missing a Dose
If you take this medication regularly, take a missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal schedule. Do not take two doses at once or extra doses. If you use this medication as needed, follow your doctor's instructions and do not take it more frequently than recommended.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. You can take the tablets with or without food. If you experience stomach upset, taking the medication with food may help. You also have the option to dissolve the tablet in water before drinking it.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry location, avoiding the bathroom. Protect it from heat and keep it out of reach of children and pets. When disposing of unused or expired medication, do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult your pharmacist for guidance on the best disposal method. You may also want to explore local drug take-back programs.
Missing a Dose
If you take this medication regularly, take a missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal schedule. Do not take two doses at once or extra doses. If you use this medication as needed, follow your doctor's instructions and do not take it more frequently than recommended.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take tablets with a full glass of water to help with absorption and prevent stomach upset.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose without consulting your doctor.
- If you are taking this for heat cramps, ensure adequate water intake in addition to the salt tablets.
- Avoid excessive intake of other sodium-containing foods or beverages unless advised by your doctor.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Inj, 1000ml
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Inj, 250ml
- Sod Chloride 0.45% Inj, 1000ml
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Inj, 100ml
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Inj, 50ml
- Sodium Chloride 1gm Tablets
- Sodium Chloride 0.9% Inj, 10ml
- Sodium Chloride 0.9% Inj, 50ml
- Sodium Chloride 0.9% Inj, 20ml
- Sod Chloride 0.45%/20meqkcl
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Inj, 500ml
- Sod Chloride 0.9% W/ 20meq Kcl
- Sodium Chloride 4meq/ml (23.4%) Inj
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Excel Inj 250ml
- Sodium Chloride 0.9% Neb Sol 30x3ml
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Inj, 100ml
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Inj, 50ml
- Sod Chloride 23.4% Inj, 100ml
- Sod Chloride 0.45% Inj, 500ml
- Sod Chloride 0.45% Inj, 1000ml
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Inj, 500ml
- Sodium Chloride 2.5meq/ml Inj, 40ml
- Sodium Chloride 3% Neb Sol 15ml
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Neb Sol 100 X 5ml
- Sodium Chloride 10% Neb Soln, 15ml
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Inj, 5ml
- Sodium Chloride 5% Ophth Oint 3.5gm
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Inj, 10ml
- Sodium Chloride 7% Neb Sol 60x4ml
- Sodium Chloride 3% Inj, 500ml
- Sod Chloride 23.4% Inj, 200ml
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Neb Sol 25 X 5ml
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Neb Sol 100 X 3ml
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Neb Sol 50 X 15ml
- Sodium Chloride 10% Neb Sol 60x4ml
- Sodium Chloride 0.9% Inj, 2ml
- Sodium Chloride 2.5meq/ml Inj, 20ml
- Sodium Chloride 2.5meq/ml Inj, 40ml
- Sod Chloride 4meq/ml Inj, 25x30ml
- Sod Chloride 5% Ophth Soln 15ml
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Inj, 1000ml
- Sodium Chloride 3% Neb Sol 30x4ml
- Sodium Chloride 7% Neb Sol 30x4ml
- Sodium Chloride 3% Neb Sol 60x4ml
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Inj, 250ml
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Inj, 150ml
- Sodium Chloride 0.9% Inj,100ml
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Inj, 25ml
- Sod Chloride 0.9% Inj, 125ml
- Sod Chloride 0.45% Inj, 250ml
- Sod Chloride 0.45% Inj, 50ml
- Sod Chloride 0.45% Inj, 100ml
- Sod Chloride 5% Inj, 500ml
- Sod Chloride 0.45%/20meq Kcl
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
1-2 grams (1-2 tablets) orally 1-3 times daily, or as directed by physician based on electrolyte status.
Dose Range:
1 - 6 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
Hyponatremia (mild):
1-2 grams orally 1-3 times daily, adjusted based on serum sodium levels.
Heat cramps/exhaustion:
1 gram orally every 1-2 hours with liberal water intake, not to exceed 4-6 grams per day.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (typically IV or specific oral rehydration solutions)
Infant:
Not established (typically IV or specific oral rehydration solutions)
Child:
Dosing is highly individualized based on weight, clinical condition, and serum electrolyte levels. Typically 10-20 mg/kg/dose, 1-3 times daily, or as part of oral rehydration therapy.
Adolescent:
Similar to adult dosing, 1-2 grams orally 1-3 times daily, or as directed by physician.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
Use with caution; monitor serum sodium and fluid status.
Moderate:
Use with caution; monitor serum sodium and fluid status closely. Dose reduction or avoidance may be necessary.
Severe:
Contraindicated or used with extreme caution and close monitoring due to high risk of fluid overload and hypernatremia.
Dialysis:
Considerations: Avoid oral supplementation unless specifically indicated and closely monitored by nephrologist due to fluid and electrolyte balance issues.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment needed, but monitor for fluid retention if ascites or edema are present.
Moderate:
No specific adjustment needed, but monitor for fluid retention if ascites or edema are present.
Severe:
No specific adjustment needed, but monitor for fluid retention if ascites or edema are present.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Sodium chloride is an essential electrolyte that plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, osmotic pressure, and acid-base balance. It is vital for normal nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and renal function. Oral administration provides exogenous sodium and chloride ions to replenish deficiencies.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Nearly 100%
Tmax:
Approximately 1-2 hours (for peak serum concentration after oral dose)
FoodEffect:
Absorption is generally not significantly affected by food, but taking with food may reduce gastrointestinal upset.
Distribution:
Vd:
Approximately 0.2 L/kg (primarily extracellular fluid)
ProteinBinding:
Negligible
CnssPenetration:
Limited (maintains osmotic gradient, but active transport systems regulate CNS sodium levels)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Variable (depends on fluid status, renal function, and intake)
Clearance:
Primarily renal (glomerular filtration and tubular reabsorption)
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (urine), sweat, feces
Unchanged:
100%
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Rapid (within minutes to hours for systemic effect)
PeakEffect:
Within 1-4 hours (for serum concentration)
DurationOfAction:
Variable (depends on renal function, fluid intake, and ongoing losses)
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of electrolyte problems, including:
+ Mood changes
+ Confusion
+ Muscle pain, cramps, or spasms
+ Weakness
+ Shakiness
+ Change in balance
+ Abnormal heartbeat
+ Seizures
+ Loss of appetite
+ Severe upset stomach or vomiting
Shortness of breath
Sudden weight gain
Swelling in the arms or legs
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor for advice:
Upset stomach or vomiting
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of electrolyte problems, including:
+ Mood changes
+ Confusion
+ Muscle pain, cramps, or spasms
+ Weakness
+ Shakiness
+ Change in balance
+ Abnormal heartbeat
+ Seizures
+ Loss of appetite
+ Severe upset stomach or vomiting
Shortness of breath
Sudden weight gain
Swelling in the arms or legs
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor for advice:
Upset stomach or vomiting
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Swelling in your ankles, feet, or hands (edema)
- Unusual weight gain
- Shortness of breath
- Excessive thirst
- Confusion or unusual drowsiness
- Muscle weakness or twitching
- Nausea or vomiting
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
If you have elevated sodium levels or swelling, as these conditions may be relevant to your treatment.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (including prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health issues with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine whether it is safe to take this medication in conjunction with your other treatments and health conditions.
Remember, do not initiate, discontinue, or modify the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor to ensure your safety.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
If you have elevated sodium levels or swelling, as these conditions may be relevant to your treatment.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (including prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health issues with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine whether it is safe to take this medication in conjunction with your other treatments and health conditions.
Remember, do not initiate, discontinue, or modify the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor to ensure your safety.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. If you are following a low-salt or salt-free diet, consult with your doctor to discuss any potential interactions. Regular blood tests will be necessary, as directed by your doctor, to monitor your condition. Be sure to discuss any concerns or questions with your doctor. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor, as they will need to weigh the benefits and risks of this medication for both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Severe thirst
- Dry mouth and tongue
- Flushed skin
- Fever
- Rapid heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Restlessness, irritability, confusion
- Muscle twitching or tremors
- Seizures
- Coma
- Fluid retention (edema, pulmonary edema)
What to Do:
Seek immediate medical attention or call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. Treatment typically involves careful administration of hypotonic fluids to slowly correct hypernatremia, and supportive care.
Drug Interactions
Moderate Interactions
- Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone): May increase sodium retention and lead to edema or hypertension.
- Lithium: Increased sodium intake can increase lithium excretion, potentially reducing lithium levels and efficacy.
- Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide): May alter sodium balance; high sodium intake can counteract diuretic effect, while excessive diuretic use can lead to hyponatremia requiring sodium supplementation.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Serum Sodium (Na+)
Rationale: To establish baseline electrolyte status and guide initial dosing.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Serum Chloride (Cl-)
Rationale: To establish baseline electrolyte status.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine)
Rationale: To assess kidney's ability to excrete excess sodium and fluid.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Fluid Status (Weight, Blood Pressure, Edema assessment)
Rationale: To assess baseline hydration and identify risk of fluid overload.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Routine Monitoring
Serum Sodium (Na+)
Frequency: Daily to weekly, or as clinically indicated, especially during initial therapy or dose adjustments.
Target: 135-145 mEq/L
Action Threshold: Below 130 mEq/L (consider dose increase/IV) or above 145 mEq/L (consider dose decrease/cessation).
Serum Chloride (Cl-)
Frequency: Concurrently with sodium, as clinically indicated.
Target: 98-107 mEq/L
Action Threshold: Outside normal range, especially if symptomatic.
Fluid Status (Weight, Blood Pressure, Edema assessment)
Frequency: Daily to weekly, or as clinically indicated.
Target: Stable weight, normal BP, no new edema
Action Threshold: Significant weight gain, increasing edema, elevated blood pressure (suggests fluid overload).
Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine)
Frequency: Periodically, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment or long-term therapy.
Target: Stable within patient's baseline
Action Threshold: Significant worsening of renal function.
Symptom Monitoring
- Signs of fluid overload (e.g., swelling in ankles/feet/hands, shortness of breath, rapid weight gain)
- Signs of hypernatremia (e.g., excessive thirst, dry mouth, confusion, weakness, lethargy, muscle twitching)
- Signs of hyponatremia (e.g., headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, seizures, weakness, fatigue)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Sodium chloride is an essential electrolyte. Oral supplementation is generally considered safe during pregnancy when indicated for electrolyte imbalance or heat-related conditions, but should be used cautiously to avoid fluid overload or hypernatremia. Close monitoring of fluid status and electrolytes is recommended.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Low risk when used appropriately.
Second Trimester:
Low risk when used appropriately.
Third Trimester:
Low risk when used appropriately, but increased vigilance for fluid retention and pre-eclampsia symptoms.
Lactation
Sodium chloride is naturally present in breast milk and is considered compatible with breastfeeding when used at therapeutic doses. Excessive intake should be avoided.
Infant Risk:
Low risk.
Pediatric Use
Use with extreme caution. Dosing must be precise and based on weight and clinical need. Infants and young children are more susceptible to fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Oral rehydration solutions are generally preferred for mild dehydration. Close monitoring of serum electrolytes and fluid status is essential.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients may be more susceptible to fluid overload, hypernatremia, and hypertension due to age-related decline in renal function and altered thirst mechanisms. Initiate therapy with lower doses and monitor fluid status, blood pressure, and serum electrolytes closely. Concomitant medications (e.g., diuretics) may also influence sodium balance.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Sodium chloride tablets are primarily used for symptomatic hyponatremia, heat cramps, or as part of oral rehydration therapy in specific situations.
- Always advise patients to take sodium chloride tablets with plenty of water to aid dissolution and prevent gastrointestinal irritation.
- Educate patients on the signs of fluid overload (swelling, weight gain, shortness of breath) and hypernatremia (excessive thirst, confusion) and to seek medical attention if these occur.
- Regular monitoring of serum sodium, fluid status, and blood pressure is crucial, especially in patients with underlying cardiac, renal, or hepatic conditions.
- For mild dehydration, oral rehydration solutions (ORS) containing balanced electrolytes and glucose are generally preferred over plain salt tablets.
Alternative Therapies
- Increased dietary sodium intake (for mild cases)
- Intravenous (IV) saline solutions (for severe hyponatremia or dehydration)
- Potassium chloride (if hypokalemia is also present)
- Magnesium supplements (if hypomagnesemia is present)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$5 - $20 per 100 tablets
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 (Generic)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it's a good idea to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek medical attention. When reporting the incident, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.