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Hyponatremia (Low Blood Sodium) »
Hyponatremia refers to a lower-than-normal level of sodium in the blood. Sodium is essential for many body functions including the maintenance of fluid balance, regulation of blood pressure, and normal function of the nervous system. Hyponatremia has sometimes been referred to as "water intoxication," especially when it is due to the consumption of excess water, for example during strenuous exercise, without adequate replacement of sodium.
Sodium is the major positively charged ion (cation) in the fluid outside of cells of the body. The chemical notation for sodium is Na. When combined with chloride (Cl), the resulting substance is table salt (NaCl).
The normal blood sodium level is 135 - 145 milliEquivalents/liter (mEq/L), or in international units, 135 - 145 millimoles/liter (mmol/L). Results may vary slightly among different laboratories.
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Although no data on overdosage in humans are available, VAPRISOL has been administered as a 20 mg loading dose on Day 1 followed by continuous infusion of 80 mg/day for 4 days in hyponatremia patients and up to 120 mg/day for 2 days in CHF patients. No new toxicities were identified at these higher doses, but adverse events related to the pharmacologic activity of VAPRISOL, e.g. hypotension and thirst, occurred more frequently at these higher doses.
In case of overdose, based on expected exaggerated pharmacological activity, symptomatic treatment with frequent monitoring of vital signs and close observation of the patient is recommended.
VAPRISOL is contraindicated in patients with hypovolemic hyponatremia.
The coadministration of VAPRISOL with potent CYP3A inhibitors, such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin, ritonavir, and indinavir, is contraindicated [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
In patients unable to make urine, no benefit can be expected [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Solutions containing dextrose are contraindicated in patients with known allergy to corn or corn products.
Last reviewed on RxList: 2/28/2012
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.
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