IV fluids

Plasma-Lyte A

Also called Multiple electrolytes injection, pH 7.4

A balanced IV fluid with sodium, potassium and magnesium at the pH of blood. Any drip can run on it, on request, for a flat $20 more.

What it is

Plasma-Lyte A is a sterile electrolyte solution designed to resemble the electrolyte content of blood plasma. Per liter it holds about 140 mEq of sodium, 98 of chloride, 5 of potassium, 3 of magnesium, 27 of acetate and 23 of gluconate, at about 294 mOsm/L and a pH of 7.4.

It contains no calcium and no sugar. The acetate and gluconate are buffers your body converts to bicarbonate. It is an FDA-approved prescription product.

Under our protocol it is a substitute, never a default. Any drip that normally runs on saline or Ringer's can run on Plasma-Lyte A at the same volume and rate if you ask, for a flat $20. NAD+ infusions always use saline. In build your own, it is one of the three bases.

What it is used for

Restoring fluid volume (hydration)
Replacing electrolytes along with water
A balanced alternative base for any drip except NAD+, at your request

How we give it

At the same volume and rate as the fluid it replaces: 500 mL over 30 to 45 minutes, or 1,000 mL over 60 to 90 minutes, adjusted to how you feel.

Good to know

Why does it cost more?

Plasma-Lyte A is a more expensive fluid than saline or Ringer's, so it carries a flat $20 charge. Nothing else about the visit changes.

Can I have it with NAD+?

No. Under our protocol, NAD+ infusions always run on normal saline.

Also in IV fluids

Normal Saline

Sterile salt water at about the same concentration as your blood. The base of most of our drips.

Lactated Ringer's

A balanced IV fluid with sodium, potassium, calcium and lactate, closer to the electrolyte mix of blood than plain saline.

Extra Liter of Fluid

A second 1 L bag of the same fluid as your drip, added to any IV visit.