<Li> B05BB01 (WHO) </Li> <P> Ringer's lactate solution (RL), also known as sodium lactate solution and Hartmann's solution, is a mixture of sodium chloride, sodium lactate, potassium chloride, and calcium chloride in water . It is used for replacing fluids and electrolytes in those who have low blood volume or low blood pressure . It may also be used to treat metabolic acidosis in cases other than those caused by lactic acidosis and to wash the eye following a chemical burn . It is given by injection into a vein or applied to the affected area . </P> <P> Side effects may include allergic reactions, high blood potassium, volume overload, and high blood calcium . It may not be suitable for mixing with certain medications and some recommend against use in the same infusion as a blood transfusion . Ringer's lactate solution has a lower rate of acidosis as compared with normal saline . Use is generally safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding . Ringer's lactate solution is in the crystalloid family of medication . It is the same tonicity as blood . </P> <P> Ringer's solution was invented in the 1880s with lactate being added in the 1930s . It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system . Lactated Ringer's is available as a generic medication . The wholesale cost in the developing world is about 0.60 to 2.30 USD per liter . For people with poor liver function, Ringer's acetate may be a better alternative with the lactate replaced by acetate . In Scandinavia Ringer's acetate is typically used . </P>

Is there a difference between saline and lactated ringer's