Ringer's Lactate

[recce_o]

This may or may not be a stupid question. Can Ringer's be administered to people who are lactose intolerant. Some people are not only unable to digest lactose, but are actually allergic to it. Is there sufficient chemical similarity between lactose and the lactate ion to cause an allergic reaction if administered IV?

[wannabe]

No, it's not a problem, or at least not one that I've ever heard of. Lactated Ringers Solution is basically an electrolyte solution that somewhat poorly mimics typical blood chemistry but doesn't cause the same problems of sterile water. Although not as well balanced as something like Tis-U-Sol it shouldn't cause any problems.

I should clarify that my training is as an EMT and Doctoral research surgeon bypassing Med School, so if there's a knowledgable MD on the list who disagrees with me, go with him/her.

Matt

[starlight1]

Recce
Lactate and lactose are different substances all together. Lactate is a by product of metabolism during the breakdown of glucose. Lactose is a carbon ring sugar made up to glucose and another sugar called galactose. Lactose cannot enter the body and is always broken down. Basically you are talking about
two different substances all together so its not a problem. Feel free to e-mail with any other questions, I'm finishing my QL2/3 at WATC right now.

[starlight1]

Recce
Lactate and lactose are different substances all together. Lactate is a by product of metabolism during the breakdown of glucose. Lactose is a carbon ring sugar made up to glucose and another sugar called galactose. Lactose cannot enter the body and is always broken down. Basically you are talking about
two different substances all together so its not a problem. Feel free to e-mail with any other questions, I'm finishing my QL2/3 at WATC right now.